On Saturday, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, an adviser for the Environment and Climate Change sectors, spoke out about noise pollution. She emphasized the need to curb unnecessary honking, calling it a bad habit that must change. “We need better law enforcement and public awareness,” she said.
Her comments came during a motor rally organized by the Department of Environment (DoE) and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). This event was part of a larger project aimed at controlling noise pollution, which has become an increasing concern in urban areas.
Rizwana noted that the Noise Pollution (Control) Regulations 2025 are now in effect, allowing both the DoE and the police to take action against those who pollute the air with noise. Specific areas in Dhaka have been designated as silent zones, and monitoring efforts will be intensified.
She pointed out that honking and fireworks are significant sources of noise pollution. To address this, there will be restrictions on fireworks during the upcoming Pahela Baishakh celebrations, allowing them only in designated areas.
The rally, themed “No more noise pollution, let healthy life prevail,” started at Manik Mia Avenue and ended at the DoE office in Agargaon, passing through various key areas like Farmgate and Karwan Bazar.
Senior officials including Dr. Farhina Ahmed, secretary of the Environment Ministry, and Dr. Md Kamruzzaman, director general of DoE, joined the event. Students from Green Voice also volunteered for the campaign, which included mobile courts and awareness programs at ten locations across Dhaka over a ten-day stretch.
Noisy cities can significantly impact health, according to experts. Research by the World Health Organization shows that noise pollution can lead to stress, sleep disturbance, and heart disease. In Bangladesh, where urban populations are rapidly growing, these issues are becoming more critical.
Public sentiment is also shifting. Many people are taking to social media to express frustration over constant honking in the streets. Hashtags like #SilenceMatter have gained traction, revealing a collective desire for quieter living environments.
With these ongoing efforts, there’s hope that future generations can enjoy a more peaceful and healthier atmosphere.
