Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called Dhaka's persistent air pollution a matter of national shame, urging citizens from all sectors to take active steps in protecting the environment and forests. He emphasized this need during a meeting held to review the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change's progress and plans.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Rahman highlighted the importance of public awareness and collective efforts to create a liveable Bangladesh for future generations. He encouraged government officials to extend their efforts beyond their official duties to safeguard the environment.
The meeting, conducted in the ministry's conference room, resulted in several decisions, including the identification and preservation of the country's mother trees within six months. It also called for regular care and monitoring of planted trees and the expansion of afforestation efforts in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Rahman stressed the necessity of increasing access to natural spaces, promoting rooftop and school gardens, and developing gardens in various buildings. He underlined that public awareness is crucial alongside government initiatives to ease environmental conservation efforts.
Expressing concern over Dhaka's ranking as one of the most polluted cities globally, Rahman urged everyone to take responsibility to alter this situation. He called on ministry officials to maximize their capacity beyond their assigned tasks, emphasizing that those in responsible positions have a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the country's well-being.
He further pointed out the plan to plant 25 crore trees, noting that successful implementation would benefit the entire population. The Prime Minister concluded that collective efforts could yield positive results, ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.
Additionally, the meeting decided that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change would compensate for any shortfalls if other ministries fail to achieve their tree-planting targets. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the planted trees will be ensured.
The meeting was attended by Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, State Minister Shaikh Faridul Islam, Prime Minister's Special Assistant Dr. Md Saimum Parvez, acting Secretary Fahmida Khanom, and other senior officials.