Discover Why Savar Upazila Has Been Designated as a ‘Degraded Air Shed’ and What It Means for Residents

Savar, a region near Dhaka, has been declared a “Degraded Air Shed” by the government due to alarming air pollution levels. This decision highlights a serious environmental crisis affecting public health.

According to the Department of Environment, the air pollution in Savar is nearly three times above the national standard. This change, issued under the Air Pollution (Control) Rules, 2022, will lead to a ban on most brick kilns starting this September, aiming to combat the pollution crisis. Only tunnel and hybrid Hoffman kilns will be allowed to operate.

Open burning of waste and approvals for new industries that could pollute the air are also banned. The air quality in Savar has been so bad that it poses significant health risks. A report from the Continuous Air Monitoring Stations revealed that during the dry season, pollution spreads to Dhaka, affecting millions of residents.

Experts are voicing concern. Dr. Islam, an environmental scientist, states, “Pollution from Savar is a major contributor to Dhaka’s air quality issues. We must take urgent action.” This sentiment is backed by recent statistics indicating that air pollution is responsible for over 1.5 million deaths in Bangladesh each year.

The High Court had previously mandated the closure of illegal brick kilns across the country to ensure a pollution-free environment. In February, it ordered accountability from divisional commissioners to uphold environmental laws. The urgency of these measures reflects the critical nature of the issue.

As this situation develops, it’s clear that both Savar and Dhaka face a long road ahead toward cleaner air and healthier living conditions. The government hopes these policies will make a difference, but ongoing efforts are crucial for lasting change.

For more on air pollution trends in Bangladesh, you can check this comprehensive report from the World Health Organization on air quality assessments: WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines.

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