Saturday | 11 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
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Saturday | 11 January 2025 | Epaper

Dhaka’s struggle with air pollution:A crisis of our time

Published : Thursday, 19 December, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 476
MD Asadullah Al Mahmud
On December 13, 2024, Dhaka once again emerged as the most polluted city in the world, with air quality reaching a hazardous level. The Swiss-based organization, IQAir, reported that at 9:30 AM, the air quality index (AQI) of the city reached a score of 252, marking it as "very unhealthy." This alarming news highlights a persistent environmental issue that has become increasingly difficult to ignore.

Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances like gases, dust, and chemicals in the air that can have serious repercussions for both the environment and human health. While pollution can be caused by natural phenomena such as volcanic eruptions or wildfires, human activities are the primary contributors. The rapid urbanization, industrialization, and reliance on fossil fuels have exacerbated the situation, particularly in major cities like Dhaka.

The primary causes of air pollution in Dhaka can be traced back to unregulated industrial activities, traffic emissions, and construction work. Factories, many of them operating without proper environmental safeguards, release toxic gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere. The proliferation of vehicles, many of them old and emitting large amounts of smoke, compounds the problem. Furthermore, the construction boom in the city stirs up dust and releases particulate matter into the air.

When air pollution surpasses a certain threshold, it becomes a public health crisis. People are exposed to harmful pollutants that can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and even premature death. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. The toxic particles in the air can also affect mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment.

The environmental impact is equally severe. Air pollution contributes significantly to climate change by increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It also causes acid rain, which damages soil, water bodies, and crops, further endangering ecosystems. Additionally, air pollution accelerates the depletion of the ozone layer, reducing its ability to protect the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Economically, the toll of air pollution is staggering. Healthcare costs surge as diseases related to air pollution become more widespread. The agricultural sector suffers as crops fail due to the effects of acid rain and pollution, while tourism declines as cities become less attractive due to poor air quality. The overall economic burden of pollution, therefore, weighs heavily on both individuals and the nation.

Over the past 15 years, air pollution in Dhaka has worsened due to the government's failure to effectively manage environmental regulations. Unplanned industrialization, rampant corruption, and the unchecked expansion of polluting industries have played a significant role in this crisis.

Over the past 15 years, air pollution in Dhaka has worsened due to the government's failure to effectively manage environmental regulations. Unplanned industrialization, rampant corruption, and the unchecked expansion of polluting industries have played a significant role in this crisis. Despite the growing evidence of the dangers posed by air pollution, the political will to tackle the issue remains weak.

The situation has been exacerbated by a lack of oversight in the transportation sector. The dominance of old, inefficient vehicles has contributed to the increasing levels of vehicular emissions. Moreover, the brick kiln mafia continues to operate with impunity, producing massive amounts of smoke that pollute the air. The government's inability to enforce environmental laws and regulations has allowed these harmful practices to persist unchecked.

The way forward demands immediate action from the government, especially as Dhaka continues to suffer from this deadly pollution. It is essential that the government strengthens environmental enforcement agencies and introduces stricter regulations on industries and vehicles. The closure of illegal brick kilns and the promotion of cleaner, greener alternatives in transportation are crucial steps in reducing pollution. At the same time, raising public awareness about the dangers of air pollution and encouraging the use of environmentally friendly technologies can help mitigate its impact.

In the long term, it is imperative that Bangladesh shifts towards sustainable development practices. Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, must be prioritized to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Green building practices and eco-friendly urban planning can contribute to reducing pollution while improving the quality of life for residents. A comprehensive approach to waste management and better public infrastructure will also help in curbing air pollution.

Without decisive action, the air quality in Dhaka will continue to decline, posing an even greater threat to public health and the environment. The time to act is now, for the sake of future generations who deserve to live in a cleaner, healthier world.

The writer is an Entrepreneur



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