RAJSHAHI, Apr 20: Noise pollution in Rajshahi has reached alarming levels, with commercial zones experiencing average sound readings far exceeding the legal limits, according to recent field measurements.
On Sunday, sound monitoring at Railgate- one of the city's busiest intersections-recorded a peak average noise level of 103.7 decibels, significantly above the permitted daytime limit of 70 decibels.
Early morning traffic across major intersections, including Talaimari, Bhadra, New Market, and Saheb Bazar, is marked by excessive honking, causing stress for residents and affecting urban wildlife.
Experts say prolonged exposure to high-decibel noise can trigger hearing loss, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disruption, and mental stress. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women are most vulnerable.
A 2022 report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) ranked Rajshahi fourth globally in noise pollution, recording 103 decibels-levels that recent measurements confirm remain unchanged or rising.
The Barendra Environmental Development Voluntary Organisation conducted a survey on April 4, led by its president Engineer DrMdZakir Hossain Khan. Measurements showed average peak noise of 100.5 decibels between 11:00 am and 11:30am, rising to 103.7 decibels from 3:00 pm to 3:30pm. Historical data shows a steady rise: 90 decibels in 2022-23, 96 in 2024, and 97 in 2025.
Field observations indicate unnecessary honking as the main cause. High-decibel "TT horns" in battery-operated auto-rickshaws, buses stopping indiscriminately, and repeated horn use to attract passengers intensify the problem. At Talaimari, several buses were seen honking for minutes while stationary. Bus driver Azmal Huda Manik admitted honking is habitual and meant to draw passengers.
Operations by the Department of Environment have had limited impact. From 2022 to March 2026, over 30 enforcement drives led to fines and the seizure of more than 150 hydraulic horns. Md Kabir Hossain, assistant director of the Rajshahi Department of Environment, noted that unregistered vehicles, multiple bus terminals, and weak traffic management continue to fuel the crisis.
Dr Shankar Kumar Biswas, public health specialist at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, warned that excessive noise increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Experts recommend strict enforcement of low-noise horns, dedicated vehicle lanes, fixed bus stops, urban speed limits, and increased public awareness. Environmentalists suggest planting trees such as mango, jamun, neem, and moringa to act as natural noise barriers.
Dr Md Zakir Hossain Khan said, "
Noise pollution is no longer only a human problem-it threatens the city's entire ecosystem. Without coordinated law enforcement, driver training, and public awareness, the situation will continue to deteriorate."
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