Spatial determinants of transit noise: A prediction model and policy implications for Dhaka's MRT-6 corridor

Noise generation along Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) corridors is an emerging environmental concern in densely populated cities. It has adverse effects on public health and urban livability. This study analyses field noise measurements from 99 locations along MRT-6 corridor in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Upon utilizing the collected noise data, a regression-based noise prediction model is developed for estimating maximum noise levels (L max ). The model is statistically significant ( p= 0.000) and the three predictors are able to explain 65.4% of the variation of L max along the MRT corridor ( R 2 = 0.654). The standardized beta coefficients from the resulting prediction model reveal that L max along the corridor is significantly influenced by distance from the MRT track ( β = −0.637), followed by land use and lastly, train speed ( β = 0.133). These results indicate that noise exposure along the corridor is primarily dictated by proximity to the track but is also influenced by the surrounding urban land use. By quantifying how specific urban land uses alter noise propagation, this predictive model provides urban planners and policymakers with an evidence-based tool to establish statutory setback distances and guide future development along transit routes in Dhaka.