Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the necessity of initiating a social movement against the pervasive “loud culture” as a strategy to tackle noise pollution. She articulated her views as the chief guest at a consultative workshop hosted by the Department of Environment (DoE) in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized to determine appropriate actions for the third revision of the Integrated and Partnership-Based Project for Controlling Noise Pollution, as stated in a ministry press release. Rizwana highlighted that loud roadside conversations, excessive vehicle honking, and the misuse of microphones are not only legal infringements but also indicative of a broader behavioral decline.
She stressed the urgency of raising public awareness to foster behavioral changes. The environment adviser also emphasized the importance of strictly enforcing noise pollution laws, particularly in designated ‘silent zones’ such as airports, hospitals, and educational institutions.
Rizwana urged that the public must recognize noise pollution as a form of violence with severe consequences. She stated, “Every motorcyclist, protocol vehicle user, or private car driver must understand that unnecessary honking or playing loud music can seriously harm others’ health. If we want relief from noise pollution, we must act now.”
The workshop also featured insights from Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed and Additional Secretary (Development) of the ministry Md. Khayrul Hasan, with DoE Director General Dr. Kamruzzaman presiding over the session. Attendees included policymakers from various departments, law enforcement representatives, environmentalists, and members of civil society.