On the impacts of noise pollution in Dhaka

Along with water and air pollution, noise pollution has become a hazard to the quality of life in Dhaka. The noise level in different locations of the metropolitan area exceeds specified standard limits by as much as 20dB. In the "so-called" silent zones, it does not fall below 55dB even in the morning hours. World Health Organization (WHO) identified many adverse effects of long exposure to moderate level noise or sudden exposure to excessive noise. It is reported that most of the dwellers of Dhaka are not aware of the ill effects of noise pollution. They even do not consider noise a pollutant, and take it as a part of routine life. In this context, a survey is conducted to explore the sources, effects, reactions and suggestions for controlling the excessive noise. It investigates the effectiveness of the current administrative measures to abate the problem of noise pollution. The survey indicates that noise results in reduced efficiency and affects individual social behavior. It also causes interference in speech communication and sleeplessness. It appears that, now-a-days, people are becoming more aware of the bad impacts of noise pollution and of the significance of noise pollution control. But still there is much work to be done to educate the people in this regard.QC 20120126