As far as the ambient noise standards are concerned, which defines the quality and quantity of noise, the following table gives an idea of the required amount of sound in Leq dB (A), which is a standard for measuring noise levels. If the cities in Kerala are to follow global standards with respect to the noise levels possible in city areas, then the recent circular from the environment department will be worth considering. It is highly essential for desirable population density planning, so as to regulate the noise level in a particular area.

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Leq dB (A)
Sl. No --------------------------------------------------------------
Area Day Time Night Time
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1 Industrial area 75 70
2 Commercial area 65 55
3 Residential area 55 45
4 Silence zone 50 40
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Leq or equivalent level, studies the magnitude of sound energy in the environment over a particular period. It measures both the quality and quantity of environment noise. The above table gives the desirable normal standard during the day and night in industrial, commercial, residential and silence zone. In most instances in Kerala property development is taking place more in areas adjacent to the residential centers and far away from the industrial zones that are prone to noise pollution.

The determinants of urban health such as roads, population density, the number of buildings in a particular area, quality of air, water and sound determine the quality of life for a person in an urban environment. The deteriorating urban situation can be brought back from the brink only through coordinated public action. Scores of government projects implemented earlier have not achieved good results mainly due to the lack of interest from the target group.