Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has instructed the relevant agencies to take joint action to control air pollution across the country. 'All relevant organizations, including the Department of Environment, City Corporation, BRTA and RAJUK, will participate in the campaign to prevent air pollution in Dhaka,' she said while addressing an emergency meeting at Pani Bhaban here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana, who also serves as the Water Resources Adviser, emphasized that no illegal brick kiln will be allowed to operate in the Savar area, which has been declared a degraded air shed to prevent air pollution in Dhaka. Relevant officials have been instructed to take necessary measures in this regard.
She stated that any construction or repair work of buildings should be carried out under cover, and action will be taken as per the law if this is not adhered to. Burning of fallen leaves and waste in parks should be stopped, and strict action will be taken against those who pollute the air by burning garbage.
The meeting highlighted that trees and vines will be planted in the dividers between roads in the city to help absorb pollution. Additionally, the City Corporation will control road dust by regularly sprinkling water.
Rizwana also mentioned the implementation of a comprehensive awareness-raising program to prevent air pollution. Participants of the meeting included Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation Mohammad Ejaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works Md. Nazrul Islam, Director General of the Department of Environment Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hossain Chowdhury, Chief Engineer of the Department of Public Works Md. Khalequzzaman Chowdhury, Bangladesh Police, and representatives of relevant departments and organizations.