The Unbearable Noise Pollution: A Reality of Daily Life

Pollution is the release of harmful substances which can affect both living and non-living things. We have different causes of pollution, and in this question, I would like to state the major cause of pollution in my area, and that is NOISE POLLUTION.

In my personal experience, one of the most significant forms of pollution in my area is noise pollution. In this part of the world, where electricity supply is often unreliable, many people rely on generators as a secondary power source. Unfortunately, the aftermath of this dependency is quite distressing and very bad.

This made me remember when my sister had her first child, when we got back home after her discharge from the hospital, the neighbor opposite my sister's apartment had one annoying generator with a weird sound, and the newborn baby cried till daybreak because she was unable to sleep as a result of the noise from the generator. It was a battle before this innocent baby got used to it. So bad!

Generator, a noise pollution.

In our compound, which consists of four flats, each household has its own generator, all placed beside our windows downstairs because the landlord rejects any generator to be put upstairs while it's working. When everyone decides to turn on their generators, the noise pollution is unbearable.

During those times, we find ourselves praying for the generators to fail so that we can have a moment of peace. That's how bad the noise can be👌Some neighbors run their generators until dawn, creating a relentless chorus of noise that disrupts the peace of our living environment. So bad!

The situation is made worse by the fact that neighboring houses also run their generators, resulting in mechanical errors that fill the street. The overwhelming noise pollution affects the ability of residents to enjoy a peaceful life. Moreover, the toxic smoke emanating from these generators poses serious health risks. We are rated at the owner's risk. You cannot have a peaceful sleep when the generator is working. So annoying!

How can noise pollution affect us?

• Sleep disturbance is the major effect it has on the majority.
• It can lead to high blood pressure.
• It can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental issues.
• It can disrupt communication.
• Noise pollution can reduce the overall quality of life and well-being.

What measures have been taken to tackle this issue, and how you're coping with it?

No measure has been taken ever since I have known my country. However, the only viable solution to this ongoing issue is a consistent and reliable electricity supply. Until we achieve this, we will continue to endure this troubling situation. Sadly, it seems our leaders are more concerned with their personal interests than addressing the pressing issue of electricity in Nigeria. The people who voted them into power appear to be less concerned about their priorities. But we move regardless of how we have always been treated as a citizen.

Is it something you see ending any time soon?

No, it is not ending soon!
In my lifetime, I've witnessed no tangible improvements in the electricity situation, this issue of no light has been a thing since I was born till now and I doubt that this cycle will change or end anytime soon. It feels as though we are locked in a never-ending struggle, with little hope for a brighter future. We can only continue to pray for a better Nation.

Note: It is not only generators that cause noise pollution; there are a lot of things, such as mosques, churches, music, and so on. Some churches or mosques can make noise from morning till night every day, forgetting that people are living around, especially in Nigeria.

The images are mine.

This is my experience on the topic: Major cause of pollution in the #hivelearners writing contest for the week.

Thank you for reading through 💕