Horns banned in airport area; seven drivers fined

In a decisive move to curb noise pollution and enhance environmental order, the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has conducted a special mobile court operation aimed at enforcing a horn-free policy around Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. During the operation, seven vehicle drivers were fined a total of BDT 6,500 for violating regulations by sounding horns. The DNCC has indicated that such operations will be carried out regularly to maintain environmental discipline in and around the airport.

The coordinated initiative, held on Sunday, 25 January, sought not only to penalise offenders but also to raise public awareness about the dangers of excessive noise. Officials from the relevant authorities, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, participated in the drive. During the campaign, drivers were cautioned regarding the horn-use restrictions, while passengers and pedestrians were also educated on the importance of maintaining a quieter environment.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor on Environment and Climate Change, emphasised the broader implications of noise pollution, describing it as “a silent yet severe environmental problem that adversely affects both physical and mental health over time.” She added, “If everyone acts responsibly from their own position, it is possible to establish a sustainable horn-free environment. Maintaining silence in the airport area is a governmental priority, and this initiative can serve as a model for other key areas across the country.”

Additionally, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has begun providing drivers with targeted training to mitigate noise pollution. An initial phase involving 50 modern sound level meters has been launched to monitor and measure sound levels around the airport, with plans to expand this surveillance in the near future.

DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz highlighted the strategic importance of the airport zone, noting, “As an international gateway, it is crucial to uphold environmental order and tranquility here. Successfully maintaining a horn-free area at the airport can set a positive precedent for the entire city, encouraging citizens to comply with regulations and respect public spaces.”

Summary of Mobile Court Operation at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

With continuous monitoring, awareness campaigns, and law enforcement, DNCC aims to transform the airport vicinity into a truly “silent zone,” setting a standard for urban environmental management across Bangladesh.