70 to 100 decibels: Bengaluru commuters’ daily exposure to traffic noise is damaging their hearing

During peak traffic hours in Bengaluru, commuters are routinely exposed to sound levels ranging between 70 and 100 decibels, according to doctors, who say prolonged exposure at these levels may gradually damage hearing.

Noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually, and common warning signs that people often ignore include persistent ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing conversations, muffled hearing, ear fullness, ear pain, poor concentration, irritability, sleep disturbances, frequent headaches and increased sensitivity to sound. Without treatment, these symptoms may eventually lead to permanent sensorineural hearing loss.

ENT specialists warn that many commuters make the problem worse by increasing headphone volume to overcome traffic noise. Over time, this habit damages the delicate hair cells inside the inner ear, which, unlike other body tissues, do not regenerate. This can result in permanent hearing loss, tinnitus and reduced hearing quality, with young professionals and students especially vulnerable because of prolonged commuting and frequent headphone use.

Doctors say noise is only one part of a broader health burden linked to Bengaluru’s traffic, which also includes migraines, affecting an estimated 14-25% of adults in Karnataka, respiratory conditions worsened by vehicle emissions, and long-term impacts on sleep, anxiety and fatigue.

Experts advise avoiding prolonged exposure to loud environments, wearing earplugs when appropriate, spending less time in heavy traffic whenever possible, following the 60/60 rule of listening below 60% volume for less than 60 minutes, treating ear infections promptly, and getting regular hearing tests if frequently exposed to traffic noise.