Environmental Group Demands Stricter Enforcement of Pollution Laws Amid Growing Waste and Noise Crisis in Bangladesh

Environmental activists have warned that Bangladesh’s persistent failure to enforce existing laws is exacerbating severe air, noise, visual, and plastic pollution across the country. The Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) issued this statement on Tuesday during a seminar held at the National Press Club in Dhaka, titled “Air, Noise, Visual, and Plastic Pollution: How Far to a Remedy?”

Data presented by BAPA reveals that the nation generates approximately 25,000 tons of solid waste daily, with Dhaka alone contributing 7,500 tons. Of the total waste, 55 percent is disposed of improperly in open areas, while annual plastic waste accumulation has reached 800,000 tons. These figures represent a long-term threat to rivers, groundwater, and overall public health.

The report identifies construction activities and road excavations as the primary drivers of Dhaka’s air pollution, accounting for 30 percent of the total. Industrial plants and brick kilns contribute another 29 percent, while vehicular emissions account for 15 percent.

Noise pollution has reached critical levels, with 82 percent of areas in the capital experiencing noise levels exceeding 60 decibels. In high-traffic zones such as Farmgate, Shahbag, and Gabtoli, levels frequently surge between 80 and 110 decibels, leading to increased risks of hearing impairment, sleep deprivation, stress, and hypertension. Visual pollution remains equally concerning, as the number of billboards in Dhaka increased by 51 percent between 2019 and 2022, totaling 13,997 units.

Bangladesh Home Ministry Reshuffles 14 Senior Police Officials Including Two DIGs

Read Article

In response, BAPA proposed a 10-point action plan, urging the government to conduct regular mobile courts against unfit vehicles, shutter illegal brick kilns, and mandate the use of concrete blocks in government construction projects. The group also called for the implementation of online air quality monitoring systems in factories and stricter enforcement of the Noise Pollution Control Rules 2025, including the use of 999 hotlines for public reporting and regulated LED lighting usage after 10:00 p.m.

BAPA President Professor Nur Mohammad Tarekdar emphasized that while public awareness is essential, the government must prioritize making environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic and polythene accessible to consumers.

Addressing the seminar, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam acknowledged the need for urgent reform. He stated that the government intends to mandate the shutdown of all billboards after midnight to reduce both visual pollution and electricity waste. Furthermore, the minister committed to closing all brick kilns that rely on burning wood once the monsoon season concludes.