Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, May 1, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a participatory meeting emphasized the urgent need for united efforts by government, non-government, and voluntary organizations to tackle sound pollution and protect public health.

Noise pollution is the main reason behind 30 major diseases in the human body and around five percent of the population is affected physically and mentally by the pollution.
 
Administrative officials and health experts made the observation at a post-rally discussion to mark International Hearing Awareness Day 2025 here on Wednesday.

The Department of Environment (DoE), in collaboration with the divisional and district administrations, jointly organized the rally and discussion meeting at the conference hall of the Divisional Commissioner's office.

The theme for this year's observance was "Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all", underscored the importance of early detection, improved access to hearing care, and raising awareness about the impact of sound pollution.

Divisional Commissioner Khandaker Azim Ahmed addressed the meeting as chief guest, while DoE Divisional Director Ahsan Habib was in the chair.

Superintendent of Police Afrujul Haque and Additional Deputy Commissioner Tuktuk Takukder also spoke on the occasion.

Associate Prof Dr Subrata Ghosh from the Department of Ear Nose and Throat at Rajshahi Medical College and Hospital illustrated the demerits of hearing pollution during his keynote presentation.
 
He said noise pollution causes multifarious physical and mental disorders of people. Utmost emphasis should be given to creating mass-awareness with full-length enforcement of the existing laws to protect public health from the adverse effects of sound pollution, he said.
 
Mentioning that excessive traffic noise disrupts people's lives, he said, "Now, it's the time to forge social resistance against noise pollution for a sustainable socio-economic development. We should build safe havens for the future generations."
 
In his remarks, Commissioner Khandaker Azim Ahmed said many people suffer a lot due to sound pollution. So, all the authorities and individuals concerned should come forward and work together to reduce sound pollution.
 
He said the existing laws related to controlling sound pollution should be enforced and the drivers should drive their vehicles abiding by the law to check sound pollution for the greater interest of public health.

This year's theme focuses on shifting perceptions and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps toward better ear and hearing care for everyone, he added.