Validation of road traffic noise and prediction of traffic increases along a highway in Hungary using noise maps

Abstract In urban regions of Europe, road traffic noise ranks as the second most significant environmental stressor, following air pollution. This study measures urban road traffic noise using a noise map that is validated by in situ noise measurements, and it predicts a future scenario for increased traffic in 2030 by altering the traffic composition and overall vehicle count whilst evaluating the noise exposure at building façade points. The investigation used the noise mapping software IMMI and employed the CNOSSOS-EU method to assess road traffic noise. There are strong connections between the actual noise measurements and the model results, with an average difference of 1.09 dB(A) on the roadside, whilst on the receptor side it was 0.81 dB(A). Urban transport development provides the basic data to predict the noise levels affecting the designated area. Based on the 35% increase expected in average day and night traffic flow in 2030, the results indicate an additional 307.14% of people will be exposed to noise levels between 55 and 60 dB(A) throughout the day (L day ), and an additional 450.00% of people will be exposed to noise levels between 50 and 55 dB(A) at night (L night ). By 2030, the continual increase in urban traffic, driven by population growth, will result in significantly heightened noise levels in densely populated areas. Furthermore, average day and night noise levels in high-traffic zones are anticipated to exceed 55 dB(A) without strategic urban planning and stringent enforcement of noise laws, which would exceed WHO health safety standards.