The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has announced plans to conduct mobile courts on New Year’s Eve to curb activities causing noise and air pollution, such as fireworks, firecrackers, and sky lanterns. These activities are considered punishable offenses under the Noise Pollution (Control) Rules, 2006. Violators may face penalties, including a one-month jail term, a fine of up to BDT 5,000, or both for first-time offenses, and up to six months of imprisonment, a BDT 10,000 fine, or both for repeated violations.

The ministry emphasized that fireworks and crackers contribute to air and noise pollution, increasing risks of heart disease, stroke, and mental stress, while sky lanterns pose risks of fire hazards and harm to biodiversity. Letters have been sent to clubs in Dhaka and other relevant organizations, urging them to refrain from these activities for public health and safety.