Photo: Messenger
Every year, 48,000 people in Bangladesh suffer from heart problems caused by noise pollution. It also harms the physical and mental development of babies in the womb and leads to the premature death of 12,000 children.
Dr. Miton Chakma, associate professor of the ENT department at Chattogram Medical College Hospital, shared these concerns at a training workshop on noise pollution held at the Department of Environment office in Chattogram on Tuesday morning.
He referred to a study by the American Heart Association, which states that for every 10-decibel increase in noise levels, the risk of stroke increases by 10 per cent. For those over 65, the risk of stroke increases by 27 per cent with just a 10-decibel rise in noise. In addition to stroke, noise pollution can cause irritability, mood swings, behavioral issues, and fatigue. There is also a risk of hearing loss.
Sheikh Mohammad Touhidul Islam, chief executive officer of Chattogram City Corporation, attended the workshop as the chief guest.
Sheikh Mohammad Touhidul Islam pointed out that people in the country often ignore the law, meaning that even when laws exist, they are not enforced properly.
"Children are most affected by noise pollution and stressed the need for greater awareness of their health. City corporations cannot avoid their responsibility in tackling pollution. We all have a role to play in protecting the future of the next generation. We don’t want to be known for being the most polluted," he said.
Nasim Farhana Shirin, director of the Department of Environment, Chattogram, presided over the workshop while Hasan Hasibur Rahman, director of the Department of Environment, Chattogram region, attended as the special guest.
Messenger/Anowar/SK/EHM
