The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has reiterated that the unauthorised use of fireworks and firecrackers on New Year’s Eve, 31 December, constitutes a punishable offence, urging the public to desist from engaging in such activities.
The ministry issued this reminder in a press release on Friday (27 December), underscoring the detrimental impact of fireworks on both health and the environment.
It noted that the practice exacerbates existing levels of noise and air pollution.
Citing a tragic incident, the ministry referred to a previous report in which a child with a heart condition died, allegedly due to the fright caused by the sound of fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Excessive noise pollution, the press release added, is linked to numerous physical and mental health issues.
These include hearing and memory loss, sleep disturbances, anxiety, irritability, high blood pressure, tinnitus, dizziness, heightened risk of heart disease, mental instability, stroke, and increased chances of heart attacks.
In view of these hazards, the ministry called upon the public to abstain from such unauthorised activities on 31 December, which pose significant threats to public health and biodiversity.
It further solicited cooperation to uphold the law and ensure a safe environment for all.
The press release also highlighted the legal framework surrounding the issue. The unauthorised use of fireworks contravenes Section 7 of the Noise Pollution (Control) Act, 2006, and is punishable under Section 18.
Penalties for violations include imprisonment for up to one month, a fine of up to Tk5,000, or both for the first offence. For subsequent offences, the punishment increases to imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to Tk10,000, or both.
