DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT Traffic noise abatement through tree and shrub rows was studied on the main highway between Peshawar and Islamabad/Rawalpindi. Road stretches with trees and shrubs were selected all along this highway. Noise of traffic was measured behind the vegetation stretches and controlled with a Noise Level Meter. It was found that the greens alone in combination with shrubs could cut down the traffic noise by 5-8 dB(A). Trees in combination with shrubs proved more effective and multiple rows of young trees of Eucalyptus camaldulensis in combination with Tecoma stans gave a maximum reduction of 8 dB(A) in the traffic noise. It is recommended that multiple rows of evergreen trees in combination with shrubs must be planted along the highways, as a measure to cut down traffic noise in addition to other environmental benefits.