It is alarming to note that Dhaka has been continuously ranking among the five most polluted cities in the world for the last two months. Reportedly, the capital city scored 167 on the Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) measured near the US Embassy in Dhaka at 5pm on Friday, which is categorized as unhealthy. Such a severe air quality rating for Dhaka should compel the authorities concerned towards a decisive shift in policy.
Although Dhaka has repeatedly been labelled as one of the 10 most polluted cities in the world, it has failed to integrate any consistent and prudent action on it. People residing in various areas in the capital are exposed to nightmarish experiences as they have been facing environmental hazards for long due to dust pollution.
Although Dhaka has repeatedly been labelled as one
of the 10 most polluted cities in the world, it has failed to
integrate any consistent and prudent action on it
Previously, there were some air pollution hotspots in Dhaka. But in the recent years, such areas have widened to almost the entire city as roads see traffic jams throughout every working day.
Dust pollution has turned into a major public health concern in the capital and because of construction work going on the year round there is no sign of the situation improving any time soon. It is worth mentioning that the current level of air pollution is responsible for the surge in various diseases like lung problems, cancer, respiratory troubles etc.
Taking all into consideration, we must formulate and implement necessary laws to compel the builders and constructors to build roads and buildings following rules and regulations.
Relevant authorities must play their role to control unusual growth of dust as well as other air pollutants. It is time for the policymakers and all the stakeholders to understand and underscore the need for formulating new policies and integrate new measures to improve Dhaka’s toxic air.