Author: Sharif Mohammad Sadat
The vibrant celebrations on New Year’s Eve have become a hallmark of Dhaka, where dazzling fireworks light up the sky and signal the start of a new year. While these displays captivate onlookers, the unseen repercussions of this festivity on humans, animals, and the environment often go unnoticed. Hospitals in Dhaka reported numerous cases of injuries and health complications resulting from the celebrations. At the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, five individuals, including three children, were treated for severe burns. Among them, an 8-year-old child remains in critical condition after sustaining burns on 15% of his body, according to Dr. Shaon Bin Rahman, a resident doctor in the emergency department.
Air pollution also surged during the festivities, with toxic pollutants such as PM2.5, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides reaching dangerous levels. These pollutants worsened respiratory conditions among vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing illnesses. Meanwhile, noise pollution, which often exceeded 140 decibels, had a widespread impact on mental health. Many individuals reported heightened anxiety, temporary hearing loss, and sleep disturbances, with the elderly and individuals with underlying conditions being the most affected. Research has shown that prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to more severe health outcomes, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
The environmental consequences of the celebrations were equally alarming. Along with the immediate rise in air pollution, the remnants of fireworks—metal casings, plastic debris, and chemical residues—contributed to Dhaka’s already critical waste management challenges. These materials contaminate soil and water, compounding the city’s environmental problems. The long-term effects of these pollutants extend beyond human health, influencing ecosystems and the well-being of animals.
While humans can seek refuge indoors, animals bear the brunt of the chaos. Pets, particularly dogs and cats, exhibited acute stress reactions, with trembling, hiding, and erratic behavior commonly reported by pet owners. Stray animals, with no shelter to escape the noise and light, faced even greater challenges, with many injured while attempting to flee the explosions. Wildlife also suffered significantly. Birds, disoriented by the lights and sounds, abandoned their nests, leaving their young vulnerable to predators and harsh conditions. Many birds collided with buildings or succumbed to exhaustion after prolonged flights in their frantic attempts to escape. These disruptions to animal life not only harm individual creatures but also pose a broader threat to local ecosystems.The cascading effects of Dhaka’s New Year celebrations demonstrate how festivities intended to bring joy can lead to significant and far-reaching consequences.
Addressing this issue requires a shift toward environmentally friendly and health-conscious alternatives. Innovative solutions like laser or drone light shows offer dazzling displays without the harmful pollutants or noise associated with traditional fireworks. Limiting fireworks to designated areas can further minimize exposure to noise and pollution, particularly in densely populated or ecologically sensitive zones.
While fireworks may brighten the sky for a moment, Dhaka stands at a crossroads—where the choice to prioritize celebrations over sustainability could continue to harm the very community it seeks to celebrate. Can we continue to embrace celebrations that bring short-term joy but long-term consequences, or will we choose a path that safeguards our health, animals, and the environment for the future? As we usher in a new year, the true celebration may lie not in the fireworks that light up the sky, but in our ability to rethink and redefine our traditions for the generations to come.
Sharif Mohammad Sadat is a medical student from Bangladesh currently serving as the Regional Director for Asia Pacific at the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), a member of the WHO Youth Council. A passionate global health advocate, Sadat is dedicated to promoting sustainable health practices and ensuring health for all. His initiatives focus on making healthcare accessible and equitable, particularly for marginalized communities. He has a strong interest in One Health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. His efforts aim to merge social growth with medical knowledge, contributing to a healthier and more equitable society.