Atifa Anjuman
Air pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental concerns in Bangladesh, particularly in its major cities like Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, and Rajshahi. With rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and vehicular emissions, air quality has significantly deteriorated, posing severe health risks to millions. Bangladesh consistently ranks among the countries with the worst air pollution levels globally, particularly in terms of particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration. Several factors contribute to the increasing air pollution in Bangladesh’s urban areas.
The rapid growth of urban populations has led to a surge in the number of vehicles on the roads, especially in Dhaka, which is notorious for its traffic congestion. Most vehicles run on diesel or poorly refined fuel, which emits high levels of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Additionally, many vehicles in Bangladesh are old and lack proper emission control systems, further exacerbating pollution levels. Industries in major cities, including textile mills, cement factories, and steel re-rolling plants, contribute significantly to air pollution. Many factories operate with outdated technologies and lack proper emission control measures. Airborne pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide are commonly released from these industries, significantly degrading air quality.
One of the most notorious sources of air pollution in Bangladesh is traditional brick kilns, which use coal, wood, and other low-quality fuels. These kilns emit vast amounts of carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter, particularly in and around Dhaka and other major cities. Despite government regulations requiring the use of cleaner technologies, a significant number of brick kilns continue to operate illegally, worsening the situation. With continuous urban expansion, construction projects are ongoing throughout major cities. Uncontrolled dust from construction sites, roadwork, and unpaved streets adds to the particulate matter concentration in the air. Construction materials like cement, sand, and bricks release fine dust particles that remain suspended in the air for long periods, posing severe respiratory hazards. In many areas, household waste, plastic, and organic matters are burned in open spaces due to inadequate waste management systems. This releases hazardous chemicals, including dioxins, furans, and particulate matter, contributing to severe air pollution. Similarly, in rural-urban fringes, biomass fuels such as wood and cow dung are still widely used for cooking, adding to indoor and outdoor air pollution.
Air pollution is not just a local issue but also a regional one. Pollutants from neighboring countries, particularly India, contribute to Bangladesh’s air pollution, especially during the dry season when winds carry industrial and vehicular emissions across borders. Air pollution has severe health implications, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The most concerning pollutants include PM2.5, PM10, sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O₃). These pollutants lead to both short-term and long-term health problems. Exposure to high levels of particulate matter can lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Fine particles (PM2.5) penetrate deep into the lungs and can cause inflammation, irritation, and reduced lung function. Air pollution is a major risk factor for heart diseases, including hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes. Long-term exposure to pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide leads to the hardening of arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Prolonged exposure to airborne toxins, particularly from industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust, increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer. Studies have shown that exposure to PM2.5 is directly linked to an increased incidence of lung cancer in urban populations. Children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution due to their developing respiratory systems. Exposure to polluted air can cause stunted lung growth, respiratory infections, and cognitive impairments. Studies in Dhaka have shown a higher prevalence of asthma and other respiratory issues among schoolchildren. Air pollution has been linked to pregnancy complications such as premature births, low birth weight, and stillbirths. Pregnant women exposed to high levels of air pollution are at a greater risk of developing gestational hypertension and other complications. Recent studies indicate that prolonged exposure to polluted air may contribute to cognitive decline, anxiety, depression, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Toxic pollutants can affect brain function and increase the risk of mental health disorders.
Recognizing the severity of air pollution, the Bangladeshi government has taken several measures to regulate emissions and improve air quality. However, enforcement and implementation remain major challenges. The government has introduced several policies and acts to address air pollution, including: The Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act (1995); The Brick Manufacturing and Brick Kilns Establishment (Control) Act (2013); The Clean Air Act (2019). To reduce emissions from brick kilns, the government has promoted the adoption of improved technologies such as Zigzag kilns and Hybrid Hoffman Kilns (HHK), which are more energy-efficient and emit less pollution. However, many traditional kilns continue to operate illegally.
Several initiatives have been taken to curb vehicular emissions, such as phasing out two-stroke engines and promoting the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. While this has reduced some pollutants, traffic congestion and poor fuel quality remain significant challenges. The Department of Environment (DoE) has established air quality monitoring stations in major cities to track pollution levels. Additionally, public awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate citizens about the dangers of air pollution and the importance of sustainable practices. The government has prohibited open waste burning in urban areas, but enforcement remains weak. More sustainable waste management strategies, including recycling and proper disposal methods, are needed. Given that air pollution is a trans boundary issue, Bangladesh has engaged in discussions with neighboring countries like India to address cross-border pollution through regional cooperation and policy alignment.
Despite various regulatory measures, air pollution remains a persistent problem due to weak enforcement, corruption, and lack of political commitment. To effectively tackle air pollution, Bangladesh needs: stronger enforcement of existing laws with stricter penalties for non-compliance, investment in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure, including renewable energy sources and improved public transportation systems, expansion of green spaces in urban areas to absorb pollutants and improve air quality, public-private partnerships to promote eco-friendly industrial practices and waste management solutions, greater regional cooperation to address trans boundary pollution issues.
Air pollution in Bangladesh’s major cities is a severe environmental and public health crisis. While the government has introduced several policies to combat pollution, poor implementation and weak regulatory enforcement continue to hinder progress. Without urgent and effective action, air pollution will continue to pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of millions. A multi-faceted approach involving government authorities, industries, and the public is essential to achieving cleaner air and a healthier future for Bangladesh.
ATIFA ANJUMAN is a Broadcast Journalist and News Presenter of Independent Television
