90pc Dhaka dwellers affected: Poba

Approximately 90 percent people in the capital are affected by severe air pollution, caused mainly due to dust, claimed Poribesh Bachao Andolon (Poba) at a human chain yesterday.

The organisation of green activists pointed out that random digging up of roads and long-term construction works -- leaving the materials out in open -- are the major reasons behind the pollution, said a press release.

Poba and Nagorik Odhikar Sangrakkhan Forum, a citizens' platform, organised the human chain in front of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University.

Talking to the newspaper, Poba Chairman Abu Naser Khan said the statistics they presented at the event was an observation of his organisation, which they have prepared, based on various media reports and recent studies.

Different government bodies, including city corporations and Dhaka Wasa, as well as contractors, continue to dig up roads for development purposes without following rules, he said.

“They just leave construction materials and soil on roads, which produce a huge amount of dust... it has become a common scene,” said Naser.

He suggested that the government implement strict monitoring so that construction works are carried out within the deadline, in an organised manner.

The environmental activist also recommended punishment for those responsible for air pollution.

At the human chain, speakers said dry weather, compounded by waning greenery and heavy construction work, has turned Dhaka's air seriously polluted. Air pollution also contributes to economic losses, they alleged.

Expressing grave concern over the rise of respiratory diseases among city dwellers, particularly children, they urged the government to take immediate measures to make Dhaka liveable and dust-free, added the press release.