Choking on ‘development’

Air pollution is responsible for 15% of all premature deaths in Dhaka each year. Photo: Syed Zakir Hossain

Envision consuming 22 cigarettes every day. That's what living and breathing in Dhaka equate to. 

The capital of Bangladesh, home to over 20 million people, is choking under the weight of its own air pollution. 

The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) often soars past 300—classified as "hazardous" by World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This is not just an environmental issue; it's a full-blown public health emergency, one that demands urgent attention and action.

The sources of Dhaka's toxic air are well-known: unregulated industrial emissions, relentless construction dust, vehicular exhaust, and widespread waste burning. 

The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) released from these activities penetrates deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature deaths.

Alarming studies reveal that air pollution is responsible for 15% of all premature deaths in Dhaka each year. 

Among the many culprits behind Dhaka's toxic air, unlawful brick kilns stand out as a significant contributor. These kilns, often operating without proper permits, spew massive amounts of toxic emissions, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon, into the air. 

Despite laws requiring brick kilns to use cleaner, more energy-efficient technologies such as zigzag kilns, a large number continue to use outdated methods, fueled by coal and other polluting materials. 

According to government estimates, over half of the brick kilns in the country operate illegally, with Dhaka and its surrounding areas being hotspots for such activities. 

But numbers only tell part of the story. The human cost of this crisis is immense, particularly for Dhaka's most vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.

Children inhale more air relative to their body weight, making them especially susceptible to pollutants. 

For the elderly and those recovering from illnesses like COVID-19, the toxic air exacerbates existing health problems, leaving them struggling to breathe. 

Even something as basic as sunlight—a natural source of vitamin D—has been blocked by the city's perpetual smog. This has led to a silent epidemic of vitamin D deficiency, weakening immune systems and increasing susceptibility to disease.

The economic toll is equally staggering, with billions lost annually to healthcare costs and reduced productivity.

Despite the mounting evidence, the government has yet to declare a public health emergency. Such a declaration would not only highlight the severity of the crisis but also mobilise resources and enforce stricter environmental regulations. It would send a clear message: the health and well-being of citizens matter more than unchecked industrial and urban growth.
 

The Bangladesh government does have laws and policies aimed at controlling air pollution, such as the Environment Conservation Act 1995 and the Brick Manufacturing and Brick Kilns Establishment (Control) Act 2013. These laws mandate environmental clearances for industries and impose strict limits on emissions. 

Yet, enforcement remains alarmingly weak. Brick kiln owners often bypass regulations through corruption or political influence, while agencies responsible for monitoring compliance lack both resources and resolve.

Similarly, the government has outlined action plans, including the Clean Air Act and National Action Plan for Reducing Short-Lived Climate Pollutants. However, these remain largely on paper due to poor implementation and coordination among agencies.

While authorities occasionally conduct crackdowns on illegal kilns, these efforts are sporadic and fail to create lasting change. The lack of air quality monitoring infrastructure further hampers efforts, with most parts of the country lacking real-time data to guide policy decisions.

Dhaka desperately needs bold, immediate action. 

During periods of peak pollution, schools and offices should switch to remote operations, while construction activities—a major source of dust—must be temporarily halted. Public transportation must be revamped to reduce reliance on private vehicles, and brick kilns, notorious for their toxic emissions, should be regulated and transitioned to cleaner technologies. 

Expanding green spaces, such as urban forests and rooftop gardens, can provide some relief by acting as natural air purifiers.

Long-term solutions are equally crucial. Transitioning to renewable energy, phasing out diesel-powered vehicles, and prioritising green urban planning are critical steps to creating a livable city. International collaboration can provide the expertise and funding necessary to implement these changes.

This crisis, however, isn't just the government's burden to bear. Citizens must also play their part—carpooling, reducing waste, and advocating for sustainable practices. 

Clean air is not a privilege; it's a fundamental right. 

Dhaka has always been a city of resilience, but resilience alone won't clear its skies. A collective effort is essential to reclaim our air, protect lives, and secure the future of this city. The time to act is now.

Sketch: TBS

Sadika Tabassum is a development practitioner. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard