Bangladesh needs to work with its neighboring South Asian countries to combat air pollution, according to a report by the World Bank. The report stated that air pollution is responsible for about 20% of premature deaths in Bangladesh, with the capital city of Dhaka being ranked among the 10 most polluted cities in the world. The concentration of fine particulate matter in some areas of the city is as much as 20 times higher than the World Health Organization’s standards. The report identified six airsheds in South Asia and called for coordinated efforts among Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and Pakistan to combat the problem.
The report emphasized that air pollution is not limited to a city, state, or national boundaries, and it is transboundary in nature. The World Bank director for regional integration for South Asia, Cecile Fruman, stated that South Asian countries in the same airshed can reduce the alarming level of air pollution only if they take a coordinated approach. By working together, countries can get results better, faster, and cheaper. The Bangladesh government officials said they are doing everything possible to solve the problem but cannot do it alone.
The report’s findings highlight the need for urgent action to combat air pollution in South Asia. The region’s countries need to work together to reduce the alarming level of air pollution, which is causing premature deaths and posing a threat to public health. The report’s recommendations for coordinated efforts among South Asian countries are crucial to combat the problem effectively. It is essential to raise awareness among the public and encourage everyone to take responsibility for reducing air pollution.
Keywords: Bangladesh, South Asia, air pollution, World Bank, Dhaka, premature deaths, fine particulate matter, transboundary, coordinated approach, public health.