Dhaka's noise pollution--

One of the worst kinds of nuisances in Dhaka city is noise pollution. It is something with which we begin and end our days. Yet, hardly anyone seems to care how much it is affecting our life and health. As per World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to sound above 60 decibels can cause temporary deafness and prolonged exposure to sound above 100 dB can lead to hearing impairment. But noise pollution has been increasing alarmingly in the capital city. It is the highest in Dhaka among the 61 most populated cities in the world. According to a report by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the average noise frequency in this city is currently 119 dB, which is more than twice the tolerable standard.

Dhaka's noise pollution is mainly caused by traffic horns, construction works, loudspeakers, political programmes, factory work and often generators. Together, they constitute a menace for which everyone suffers every minute of the day. Lack of awareness about the existing laws among common people, indifference of authorities concerned have made matters worse. Noise pollution goes on with impunity, even though its effects on human health can be severe. It is a silent killer. According to experts, it causes mental and physical illness among people. It can cause loss of hearing, deafness, heart attack, stroke, heart disease, loss of attention in children affecting their education, impaired mental development, irritable mood, stomach ulcers, insomnia, agitation and anxiety, etc. This pollution can even affect the physical and mental growth of the foetus. The students in Dhaka's educational institutions often get distracted during their classes due to noise. It affects patients in hospitals. Also, it harms our wildlife.

We must create an environment free of sound pollution for ourselves and for our children. We would like to draw the attention of the authorities concerned to look into the matter seriously and take effective measures so that Dhaka city's 'silent zones' really remain silent.

Muhammad Sultan Mahmud,

Student of Department of Psychology

Dhaka College, Dhaka,

sultanmahmudofficial27@gmail.com