DHAKA, Sept 19, 2024 (BSS) – The government has declared horn-free zone and imposed ban on single-use plastics at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) and its surrounding areas from October 1 as part of a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing noise and environment pollution.

The horn-free zone will cover a 3-kilometer stretch from Le Méridien hotel to the Scholastica campus, encompassing the airport and adjacent areas, according to a press release issued by Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) here.

To implement the decisions, several measures are being implemented under the guidance of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and leadership of CAAB Chairman Air-Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan.

The measures included installation of awareness-raising banners and billboards, distribution of leaflets, and media campaigns through electronic, print, and social media. 

Additionally, there will be speed control measures, proper parking management within the airport, and enforcement of the no-horn rule through mobile courts.

The CAAB chairman urged all drivers, passengers, and vehicle owners to cooperate fully in implementing this initiative. He expressed the hope that similar measures could be extended to other parts of the country in the future, fostering a nationwide habit of refraining from unnecessary honking. 

Besides, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has installed awareness signs along the roads to ensure so that drivers can easily see them even at night.

The Bangladesh Truck and Covered Van Owners Association has also taken specific steps to curb noise pollution, instructing all bus and truck drivers to refrain from honking in the designated area. 

Leaflets will be distributed at relevant terminals to raise awareness among drivers, with the aim of fostering an environmentally conscious driving culture.
The Department of Environment will lead awareness campaigns to educate public about the harmful effects of noise pollution and encourage active participation in noise reduction. 
From October 1, mobile courts will operate at three key points along the designated route for seven days, with the possibility of extending the timeframe if necessary to enforce the decision.  
Magistrates from the Department of Environment will be stationed near Le Méridien while CAAB magistrates will oversee the area near the airport’s roundabout, and BRTA magistrates will be active at the Scholastica point, supported by traffic police, volunteers, students, and transport association representatives, the release added.
 
Mobile courts will also be deployed for implementing the ban on single-use plastic to enforce the decision and penalizing violators. These courts will operate regularly to monitor and maintain the effectiveness of the initiative.

To raise awareness, necessary signage and digital display boards highlight the harmful effects of single-use plastics will be installed around the airports and its nearby areas.