HSIA declares horn-free zone, bans single-use plastic from Oct 1

As part of a comprehensive initiative to reduce noise and environmental pollution, the government has proclaimed a horn-free zone and banned the use of single-use plastics at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) and its adjacent areas as of October 1.

A press release from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) here states that the 3-kilometer horn-free zone will include the airport and surrounding regions and extend from the Le Méridien hotel to the Scholastica campus.

Under the direction of Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the adviser on environment, forests, and climate change, and under the direction of CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan, a number of steps are being executed to carry out the decisions.

The actions included posting billboards and banners to raise awareness, handing out pamphlets, and launching media campaigns on social, print, and electronic media.

In addition, there will be mobile courts to police the no-horn policy, proper parking management within the airport, and speed control measures.

The head of the CAAB pleaded with all motorists, passengers, and owners of vehicles to collaborate completely in carrying out this program. In the future, he hoped, similar actions may be taken in other regions of the nation, creating a national culture of not honking excessively.

Additionally, awareness signs have been placed along the roadways by Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) to make sure that cars can notice them even at night.

In an additional effort to reduce noise pollution, the Bangladesh Truck and Covered Van Owners Association has issued a directive to all bus and truck drivers asking them to avoid honking in the approved area.

At the appropriate terminals, pamphlets will be given out to drivers in an effort to create a driving culture that is environmentally sensitive.

The public shall be made aware of the detrimental impacts of noise pollution and encouraged to actively participate in noise reduction through awareness initiatives spearheaded by the Department of Environment.
Starting on October 1, mobile courts will be available for use at three strategic locations along the approved path for a period of seven days. If required, the time limit may be extended in order to carry out the ruling.
The release also stated that BRTA magistrates will be active at the Scholastica point, assisted by traffic police, volunteers, students, and representatives of the transport association, while CAAB magistrates will supervise the area near the airport roundabout and Department of Environment magistrates will be stationed near Le Méridien.

To enforce the ruling and punish offenders, mobile tribunals will also be used to apply the ban on single-use plastic. These courts will run on a regular basis in order to keep an eye on and sustain the initiative’s efficacy.

The detrimental consequences of single-use plastics will be highlighted by digital display boards and appropriate signs that will be placed throughout airports and the surrounding areas to increase awareness.