Every now and then we like to share a story with you from the soundproofing world. When considering how to reduce traffic noise in a tiger reserve, the National Highways Authority of India decided to build a soundproof and lightproof highway. However, all has not gone according to plan…
A soundproof elevated roadway was built to pass through the Pench Tiger Reserve while causing as little disturbance as possible to the exotic predators below. The reserve in central India covers a huge area that straddles two states – Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Up to 44 of these critically endangered big cats make their home at this National Park, and planners had intended to enable the free movement of wildlife by elevating the road and avoiding disturbance through the sound and light of the vehicles.
Sound and light barriers
If you’ve ever wondered how to reduce noise from outside traffic in a wildlife reserve, this is how it works!
The soundproof road includes sound barriers to block the sound of traffic, and also headlight reducers on all sides. These were installed in a 4m steel wall. The soundproofing project is the first of its kind in India, and seems like an excellent way to preserve the habitat below.
However, there are now serious doubts about the viability of the soundproof road. According to a report in the India Today newspaper, the road has become cracked after heavy rain. These large cracks are apparently such a hazard that the soundproof road has been reduced to just one lane. This closing of a 200m stretch has caused traffic jams and long delays.
The soundproof road – which cost an eye watering 960 crores (over $128 million) – has only been open for two years. Fingers have been pointed at the government and the company appointed to handle construction of the road.
Growing demand for soundproof highways
Soundproof roads have been around since the 1970s or earlier. In the United States alone, there are more than 3,000km of roads with big barriers designed to prevent sound and light disturbance in the communities which they pass through. There are reports of waiting lists in states such as California, where residents are generally keen on the idea of less noise from their roads and highways.
Reducing traffic noise in your car
It’s not just at home where you may want to reduce traffic noise. When you are driving, noise can enter your vehicle in a number of ways. We recently wrote an article on How to Reduce Traffic Noise in Car including 8 effective methods of shutting out external noise, as well as sounds from your engine and tires.
