Tackling the nuisance of hydraulic horns

As hundreds of vehicles pass through Savar every day, the busy, bustling area on the outskirts of the capital sees severe sound pollution, further aggravated by hydraulic horns used in local battery-run three wheelers.

On Friday, a group of university and college students -- part of an organisation called Chobighor -- conducted a campaign on the town's central thoroughfare to raise awareness about the nuisance.

Around noon, the group organised a rally at Savar Bazar road, and seized some 100 hydraulic horns from auto-rickshaws. Keeping with the theme of Valentine's Day on Friday, the youths gifted a rose to each auto-rickshaw driver, and educated them on why they should not be using such loud horns.

According to news reports, the sound of hydraulic horns measure at 95 decibel, higher than the permitted level (75dB) for vehicle horns.

Prince Ghosh, founder and president of Chobighor, said, "We want to see a hazard-free Savar. Hydraulic horns on auto-rickshaws are causing severe sound pollution here, so we decided to raise awareness among drivers."

"The drivers have responded positively to our campaign and we hope that they will accept our request to stop using such loud horns," he added.

"We also submitted an application to Savar municipality's mayor, seeking a ban on hydraulic horns in this municipality, which he accepted," said Prince.

Meanwhile, locals welcomed the initiative. Kamrun Nahar, a sixth-grader, said, "The loud noise of these horns is very disturbing, especially during studies. I'm glad this issue is being addressed."

Rabul Mia, who used a hydraulic horn in his auto-rickshaw, said, "I was not aware of the harm this was causing, and I will use a different horn from now on."

Mayor of Savar municipality Hazi Abdul Goni appreciated Chobighor's initiative and thanked them for this timely initiative.

"I have decided to declare a ban on hydraulic horns following their request. We will work together to reduce sound pollution," he added.