Dhaka: Social Welfare Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid emphasized the urgent need to address environmental pollution, specifically river pollution and PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) pollution. She urged the government to develop a comprehensive plan, assuring that the interim government remains open to suggestions and initiatives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharmeen made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting titled “PFAS Pollution and Public Health in Bangladesh.” The event, held at a hotel in Dhaka, was organized by Waterkeepers Bangladesh and presided over by Dr Mujibur Rahman Howlader, the former chairman of the National River Conservation Commission. Sharif Jamil, the moderator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh, facilitated the discussion.
Several notable guests attended the program, including European Union (EU) Programme Manager Hubert Blom, Dhoritri Rokhhay Amra (DHORA) co-convenor MS Siddiky, BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Dr Sakhawat Hasan Jiban, and Chief Co-ordinator of Ganosanhati Andolan Jonayed Saki. Senior development activist Shahid Hasan presented a paper addressing PFAS pollution in Bangladesh.
The discussion featured insights from various experts, including Waterkeepers Alliance Advocacy Director Jacki Esposito, Chief Technology Officer of US-based Cypress Systems INC Dr Zaki Yusuf, ESDO Programme Adviser Dr Atal Kumar Mazumder, and South Asia Mobilization Coordinator of 350.org Amanullah Parag. As the chief guest, Sharmeen called for the formation of a task force to protect the environment, stressing that the well-being of the population depends on a healthy and unpolluted environment.
Sharmeen criticized the previous government’s failure to conserve the country’s surface water, attributing it to ineffective policies and a lack of foresight. She highlighted the severe consequences of water and environmental pollution, urging action to prevent further degradation.
BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Dr Sakhawat Hasan Jiban insisted on holding accountable those responsible for environmental pollution. He referenced BNP’s 31-point charter, advocating for green industrialization and good governance to safeguard the environment.
Dr Mujibur Rahman, former chairman of the National River Conservation Commission, recommended that political parties incorporate environmental issues into their election manifestos. He called for coordinated efforts among relevant ministries to address these pressing concerns.