DHAKA: The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has announced plans to conduct mobile court drives to curb the use of fireworks, firecrackers, and the release of lanterns on December 31st night during New Year celebrations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ministry issued a notification emphasizing that such activities are punishable under the Noise Pollution (Control) Rules, 2006. First-time violators could face up to one month in jail or a fine of Tk. 5,000, or both. Repeated offenses carry a harsher penalty of up to six months in jail or a fine of Tk. 10,000, or both.
The notification also indicated that the ministry has sent letters to all clubs in the capital and various relevant organizations, urging them to avoid activities like fireworks and firecrackers, which are detrimental to public health. The ministry has requested the public to abstain from these activities during the English New Year 2025.
The ministry pointed out that fireworks and crackers contribute to noise and air pollution, and excessive noise pollution poses risks such as heart disease, stroke, and mental stress. Additionally, the release of lanterns can lead to fires and loss of biodiversity, the notification warned.