DHAKA, Oct 24, 2024 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said that the government has decided to allow six months for the phase-out, old and unfit vehicles on the streets of Dhaka. 
 
"During this period, vehicle owners will be required to switch to environment-friendly vehicles," she told journalists after a meeting on 'the necessity of removing old vehicles to control air pollution in Dhaka' held at Bidhyat Bhaban in Dhaka.

The adviser said removing these old and unfit vehicles will significantly improve air quality in Dhaka, which is crucial for protecting public health. 
 
She warned that without such actions, there will be no breathable air left in the city soon. The government will work to ensure that pollution is reduced without causing public inconvenience, she added.

A campaign, Rizwana said, to control noise pollution will begin in December. The relevant laws will be amended to empower the police to impose fines, which will be deposited in banks, she added. 
 
The adviser said this measure is expected to discourage excessive use of horns. 

Responding a query, she also highlighted that efforts will be made to address lead pollution.

During the meeting, Road, Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan said the government will implement an effective plan to remove old vehicles soon. 
 
This initiative will help reduce both traffic congestion and pollution in the city, while ensuring minimal public disruption, he said, adding that the government's efforts will progressively bring pollution under control.