Bangladesh is feeling the heat—literally. A recent World Bank report highlights that in 2024, extreme heat caused a staggering 25 million workdays to be lost. This translated to roughly $1.78 billion, impacting the country’s economy by about 0.3–0.4% of its GDP.
Over the past 44 years, Bangladesh’s average temperature has climbed by 1.1 degrees Celsius. But the situation in Dhaka is even more alarming. The city’s temperature has increased at a rate 65% higher than the national average. This rise is largely driven by rapid urban growth, industrialization, and population surges.
The World Bank conducted a survey among 3,746 households between January and June 2024. They found that with rising temperatures, both physical and mental health issues have spiked. Persistent coughs increased from 3.3% in winter to 6% in summer. Diarrhea cases rose from 1.8% to 4.4%. The heat is also taking a toll on mental health, with depression affecting 20% of respondents in summer compared to 16.2% in winter.
According to Wameq Azfar Raza, a health and nutrition specialist with the World Bank, the increased heat is harming health, reducing productivity, and pushing more people into poverty. Many heat-related deaths go unreported, complicating the health data.
Jean Pesme, the World Bank’s director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, emphasized that there are ways to combat the effects of heatwaves. He pointed to Singapore as a successful example of climate adaptation and effective urban planning.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, an advisor on environment and climate issues, expressed that residents of Dhaka don’t need a study to prove the city’s increasing unlivability. She also highlighted the global nature of climate challenges while pointing out that Dhaka is facing unique struggles due to unregulated growth. She called for better population management, tree planting initiatives, and strict enforcement of existing laws to tackle the crisis.
Iffat Mahmud, a senior operations officer at the World Bank, added that the link between heat exposure and poor health is clear. The consequences aren’t just felt in terms of individual well-being but also extend to the economy as a whole.
Bangladesh is among the most vulnerable countries to climate change, facing challenges from floods, cyclones, and other threats. As the heat continues to rise, it’s crucial for both local authorities and communities to adapt to this changing reality.
For more detailed insights, you can check the full report from the World Bank here.
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