STM Journals Peer-reviewed research from Consortium e-Learning Network

Journal of Offshore Structure and Technology Original Research

From Baseline Survey to Management Plan: A Systematic Framework for Port-Specific Mitigation of Underwater Radiated Noise

  1. Amit Kumar Singh
  2. G.V.V Pavan Kumar School of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering Indian Maritime University Visakhapatnam Campus Visakhapatnam
  3. P. Sirisha
  4. D.S.P Vidyasagar

Abstract

The growing recognition of underwater radiated noise (URN) as a significant marine pollutant necessitates the development of actionable management frameworks at the port level, where noise sources are concentrated, and impacts can be particularly acute. While international guidelines exist, a standardized methodology for ports to transition from assessment to implementation is lacking, particularly in regions with high biodiversity and developing maritime infrastructure. This paper presents and demonstrates a systematic, four-phase framework for developing and implementing a Port-Specific Underwater Noise Management Plan (PS-UNMP). The framework was ap- plied in a pilot study at the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) in India. Phase I involved comprehensive stakeholder mapping and high-risk activity identification. Phase II established a quan- titative acoustic baseline through a strategic hydrophone survey, identifying tugboat operations (peaking at 155 dB re 1 µPa) and construction activities as primary contributors. Phase III focused on data-driven mitigation, revealing that speed reduction from 8 to 3 knots for pilot launches yielded a ∼20 dB reduction in URN—a key operational insight. Phase IV integrated these findings into a scalable management plan featuring speed zones, a Noise Monitoring Program (NMP), and stakeholder incentive structures. The study validates the framework as a practical tool for ports to operationalize global guidelines like those from the IMO, bridging the gap between policy and local, effective action for sustainable marine ecosystem management.

Keywords

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