Dhaka:<Text>
The government has initiated new measures aimed at curbing noise pollution in the country, primarily by regulating horn usage, to safeguard public health. Excessive noise levels have been identified as a significant risk to public health, contributing to a range of physical and mental health issues.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, noise pollution is associated with numerous health problems, including hearing loss, heart disease, high blood pressure, insomnia, and mental concentration disorders. It also poses risks such as miscarriages in pregnant women and the potential birth of children with disabilities. Those particularly affected include hospital patients, students, traffic police, drivers, pedestrians, and individuals working or living near high-noise areas.
The negative impacts of noise pollution extend beyond health, affecting the country’s overall economic growth. In response, the government has issued the Noise Pollution (Contr
ol) Rules, 2025, which were enacted on November 24, 2025. These rules include specific regulations, such as Rule 6, which restricts the installation and use of horns exceeding permissible sound levels on vehicles and water vessels. Further, Rule 6 prohibits horn usage at night in quiet areas and in residential zones.
Rule 20 empowers police officers to penalize individuals who violate these regulations. These measures, as outlined in a letter from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, underscore the government’s commitment to reducing noise pollution in the interest of public welfare.
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