Assessment of Drivers' Behavior and Traffic Noise in Aizawl, 'THE SILENT CITY OF INDIA'

Abstract

The intensifying issue of noise pollution demands significant attention within the discourse of environmental challenges faced by contemporary urban centres. As cities expand in size, driven by population growth, exponential increase in commercial activity, and relentless development, the issue of noise pollution has become a well-documented and concerning trend. The World Health Organization (WHO) has even ranked noise pollution as the third most detrimental form of environmental pollution, highlighting its severe impact on public health. However, the assertion regarding Aizawl City, India, being dubbed the "Silent City" lacks empirical substantiation through rigorous scientific inquiry. This research thesis aims to bridge this knowledge gap by undertaking a comprehensive and empirically sound investigation. Given the multifaceted nature of this issue, with potential implication for improvement in drivers’ behaviour, urban transportation planning, environmental management strategies, and the overall design of our cities, the application of forensic research methodologies is vital. By employing such methods, this research will strive to generate credible and verifiable data that can inform these critical fields. This thesis delves into the wide-ranging impacts of loud traffic noise, particularly the incessant honking, within urban areas. Honking poses a significant challenge due to its noisy nature and frequent occurrence in cities, potentially causing harm to both human health and the environment. It reveals that continuous exposure to honking can result in health problems such as cardiovascular issues and sleep disturbances, while also adversely affecting mental well-being, leading to cognitive difficulties and emotional distress. Moreover, apart from health concerns, honking disrupts work routines, hampers community cohesion, and diminishes property values within urban settings. The thesis argues that cities need to make rules to control noise pollution. Additionally, the study looks at why people honk frequently. It considers things like socio-cultural beliefs, traffic rules, and personal attitudes. By studying how honking happens in different places, this thesis aims to understand why people do it, what are the causing factors and perspectives of the population, therefore, examines the underlying drivers An Assessment of drivers’ behaviour and traffic noise in Aizawl, the ‘Silent City’ of India iv of honking behaviour, including cultural norms, traffic management strategies, and individual attitudes. Through qualitative analyses of honking practices in diverse socio-cultural contexts, the thesis seeks to unravel the complex motivations behind this pervasive behaviour and identify potential avenues for behavioural intervention and regulatory enforcement. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, the thesis establishes a framework for understanding the effects of honking on traffic and well-being. In addition to its physiological and psychological repercussions, this research underscores the broader socio-economic result of honking-related noise pollution. By analysing the disruptive effects of excessive honking on urban productivity, social cohesion, and property values, the thesis highlights the imperative