Ghior Residents Suffer from Severe Noise Pollution

Noise pollution has reached alarming levels in remote villages across the seven unions of Ghior Upazila in Manikganj. The loud and disturbing sounds are causing serious problems for local business owners, school and college students, and other residents. Despite the repeated use of loudspeakers at high volumes day after day, there is no visible monitoring by the local administration.

According to local sources, eight to 10 loudspeakers are used every day from morning until late at night to promote schools and colleges, advertise admissions and mobile phone sales, attract patients to doctors’ chambers, and publicise various events.

Under Bangladesh’s Noise Pollution Control Rules, 2006, the permissible noise levels are 50 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night in silent areas. In residential areas, the limits are 55 decibels during the day and 45 at night. In mixed-use areas, the limits are 60 decibels during the day and 50 at night. Any noise exceeding these limits is considered noise pollution.

High levels of noise pollution pose serious health risks. Despite this, loud music and amplified sounds are played at weddings and other events, and residents do not dare to protest.

Sources said noise levels during loudspeaker announcements at Ghior Bazar range between 90 and 100 decibels, far above the generally permissible range of 45 to 60 decibels.

Specialist doctors from different parts of the country visit diagnostic centres in Ghior Upazila headquarters and the Ghior bus stand area. To attract patients, the owners of these centres broadcast announcements through loudspeakers throughout the day and night. Months of continuous announcements have left local residents struggling to tolerate the noise.

The disturbing sounds have made it difficult for people to talk on mobile phones and carry out their daily activities. In addition, loudspeakers are often played at high volumes for two to three consecutive days during various village events.

Muhammad Mizanur Rahman, headteacher of Ghior Durga Narayan High School, said loudspeakers are played at high volumes during various events while classes are in progress every day. As a result, teachers face serious difficulties in conducting lessons for students.

Dr. Bipul Balo, residential medical officer (RMO) at Ghior Health Complex, said noise pollution can reduce hearing ability. People of all ages, from children to older adults, can suffer hearing loss. It can also cause serious harm to patients with heart disease and make people with diabetes more irritable.

He said loudspeakers, televisions and other devices should be kept at a volume that does not inconvenience others or become a cause for complaints or concern.

When contacted, Ghior Upazila Nirbahi Officer Nashita-tul Islam said excessive noise pollution poses serious health risks and everyone must become more aware of the issue. “I am aware of the matter. Administrative action will be taken soon,” she said.