[🇧🇩] Save the Rivers/Forests/Hills-----Save the Environment

[Saif]

CO2 mineralisation can help curb pollution in Bangladesh

Integrating CO2 mineralisation into its industrial zones could unlock both environmental and financial rewards for the country.

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CO2 mineralisation can help curb pollution in Bangladesh

Once a vital lifeline for Dhaka, the Buriganga River now faces severe pollution from chemical waste, medical disposal, and plastic debris. FILE PHOTO: STAR

Bangladesh's industrial boom has propelled economic growth, but at what cost? Rivers that once sustained communities, such as the Buriganga and Shitalakkhya, are now some of the most polluted in the country. Industrial waste, textile dye effluents, heavy metals, and untreated sewage have turned these rivers into toxic cesspools, posing serious threats to public health and biodiversity. The Buriganga alone absorbs 21,600 cubic metres of toxic waste daily, mainly from tanneries, textile mills, and chemical factories, according to a study presented at the IICSD conference in 2015. With no robust wastewater treatment infrastructure, the challenge of industrial pollution looms large. However, an emerging technology called CO2 mineralisation offers a game-changing solution that not only captures industrial CO2 emissions but also neutralises harmful contaminants before they reach our lives.

CO2 mineralisation is a form of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) that converts captured CO2 into stable carbonates through reactions with alkaline industrial byproducts like cement kiln dust, steel slag, and fly ash. This process permanently stores CO2 in solid form, preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere, while also neutralising harmful contaminants in industrial wastewater. The result is a dual benefit: reducing emissions and mitigating water pollution.

Globally, companies like Holcim, CarbonCure, and Carbon Clean are pioneering large-scale CO2 mineralisation projects. These initiatives have demonstrated that the technology is not only effective, but also economically viable. Bangladesh has already explored carbon credit markets, selling 2.53 million carbon credits worth $16.25 million since 2006. Integrating CO2 mineralisation into its industrial zones could unlock both environmental and financial rewards for the country.

The textile and tannery industries, which drive much of Bangladesh's economy, are also among the biggest sources of pollution. In areas like Hazaribagh and Savar in Dhaka, leather processing releases highly toxic substances, including chromium, sulphides, and acids, directly into the Buriganga River. CO2 mineralisation can neutralise these hazardous chemicals by introducing CO2-reactive alkaline materials that convert them into non-leachable, harmless compounds, preventing further contamination. A similar approach can be applied to wastewater from textile dyeing, which is often laden with sulphates, phosphates, and heavy metals. Through CO2-induced precipitation, these toxic substances can be removed before they are discharged, significantly reducing water pollution. This aligns with successful global initiatives like CarbonCure's concrete technology, which injects CO2 into concrete mixtures to enhance durability while reducing emissions.

CO2 mineralisation not only cleans wastewater but also repurposes industrial waste into valuable materials. Bangladesh's cement and steel factories generate large amounts of slag, fly ash, and kiln dust, all of which can store CO2 permanently. Instead of accumulating hazardous waste, these materials can be converted into carbonate-rich products, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials. This approach is used in Canada, where captured CO2 is infused into concrete, strengthening the materials while permanently sequestering carbon. Adopting this method in Bangladesh could significantly reduce the cement industry's carbon footprint and address the country's growing industrial waste problem.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding CO2 mineralisation is its high initial cost. However, Bangladesh can offset these costs by leveraging its carbon credit market, which has already shown success in renewable energy projects. Incorporating CO2 mineralisation into its industries could generate millions of dollars annually from carbon offset sales under mechanisms such as the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Additionally, international climate finance, including grants from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and loans from the World Bank, could provide the funding necessary for pilot projects and full-scale implementation. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) could also facilitate financing the transition. Beyond financial incentives, repurposing industrial byproducts into construction-grade materials could create new revenue streams for businesses, reduce dependency on imported building materials, and promote sustainable infrastructure development.

The environmental and social benefits of CO2 mineralisation are equally compelling. Restoring cleaner rivers would improve public health by reducing exposure to toxic pollutants. Fishermen, farmers, and communities that rely on these waterways would regain access to cleaner water sources, improving livelihoods. The reduced carbon footprint of major industries would contribute to Bangladesh's climate commitments, helping the country emerge as a leader in sustainable industrial practices.

Unfortunately, despite its enormous potential, CO2 mineralisation in Bangladesh faces several obstacles. The high initial investment required for implementation, coupled with a lack of supportive policy frameworks, hinders its adoption. Additionally, many industries remain unaware of the economic and environmental benefits of this technology, creating a gap in awareness and willingness to invest. However, the landscape is shifting. The Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund (BCCTF) and international initiatives like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) are potential sources of financing that could help bridge the cost gap. Furthermore, the growing global interest in carbon trading markets could provide the financial incentives needed to encourage industries to integrate CO2 mineralisation into their waste management strategies. Countries like Norway and the Netherlands have already established carbon trading programmes, proving that emissions reductions can be monetised. If Bangladesh follows a similar path, it could turn CO2 reduction into an economic asset while simultaneously improving its environmental footprint.

Bangladesh's industrial success does not have to come at the expense of environmental health. CO2 mineralisation offers a revolutionary approach to transform pollution into progress, providing a pathway to cleaner rivers, reduced carbon emissions, and new economic opportunities. Technology exists and funding mechanisms are within reach. The only question that remains is: how soon will Bangladesh take action?

Akash Talapatra is a PhD student at Virginia Tech in Virginia, US.​

 

[Saif]

Protecting arable lands in a land-scarce country

In a land-scarce country like Bangladesh, the steady loss of arable land remains a pressing concern, often posing significant challenges to achieving various developmental goals. A key issue is the uncertainty surrounding the actual rate at which agricultural land is diminishing. Conflicting report

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Protecting arable lands in a land-scarce country
Wasi Ahmed
Published :
Mar 04, 2025 23:04
Updated :
Mar 04, 2025 23:04

In a land-scarce country like Bangladesh, the steady loss of arable land remains a pressing concern, often posing significant challenges to achieving various developmental goals. A key issue is the uncertainty surrounding the actual rate at which agricultural land is diminishing. Conflicting reports and, at times, exaggerated estimates create confusion, making it difficult to ascertain fundamental details-such as the precise extent of land currently under cultivation, the portion allocated for industrial use, and the areas absorbed by expanding human settlements.

Such information is indispensable for policymakers and urban planners, enabling them to make informed decisions on a range of issues, many of which extend beyond agriculture and food production. Effective land-use planning is essential not only for ensuring food security but also for maintaining ecological balance, optimising industrial expansion and addressing the housing needs of a growing population. Therefore, establishing a comprehensive and transparent land monitoring system-leveraging modern technology such as satellite imagery, geographic information systems (GIS), and digital land registries-is imperative. Only with accurate, up-to-date information can the nation strike a sustainable balance between development imperatives and the protection of its vital agricultural resources.

Studies conducted in the past revealed that the country was losing around 1.0 per cent of its agricultural land annually. According to an agricultural census conducted in 1983-84, the country's total agricultural land was estimated at 9.2 million hectares. A subsequent study done in 1996 showed a considerable decrease in farm lands amounting to 8.2 million hectares. This went to show the annual loss at 1.0 per cent. But findings of a study conducted few years ago by the country's lead NGO BRAC revealed a somewhat relieving picture. Between 1983 and 2008, the study says, decrease in cultivable land was to the tune of an annual rate of 0.3 per cent. A subsequent study showed the annual rate of decrease at 0.4 per cent between 2010 to 2020.

While a database of the size of agricultural lands is crucial, there is also the need for accurate data about the reclaimed lands that the government has been announcing for some time now but not providing precise information as to their size.

In recent times there is an apparent note of complacency due to bumper harvests of paddy, but the matter of food security, anticipated as a result of increased production of the staple food, does not seem to hold ground as decrease in farm lands is accompanied by a considerable decrease in the number of rural population engaged in agro profession.

Now, while credible data is important, equally important it is to know the reasons behind the losses. The reasons are not many, but how these impact the loss and the measures needed to check are matters that require urgent attention from the concerned quarters. Offsetting the losses, to the maximum extent possible, through adoption of a combination of policies and actions could be the right way to address the situation.

It is quite clear that at the root of the loss, the number one factor is the increased demand for land as a result of an increasing population. More and more lands are required for raising homesteads, and the requirement is met mostly by agricultural lands. As per 2001 population census, the total number of homesteads in the country was 24.85 million which rose to 28.66 million as per 2018 agricultural census - at a growth rate of more than 15 per cent.

Similar is the case with the requirements of roads that come with increased population and decrease in agricultural lands. Coupled with it is the recurrence of river erosion that takes its toll on farm lands. As per estimates of the Centre for Geographic Information Services (CGIS), river erosion costs 1,600 hectares of agricultural land every year. Besides these, the menace of brick fields coming up mostly on farm lands has been a cause for serious concern for quite some time.

Looking at the overall picture, it appears that loss of farm lands could have been partly protected had there been a legal bar on the use of agricultural lands for purposes other than cultivation. Opinions expressed many a time by concerned quarters in the past to bring some legal instrument in force so that agricultural lands could be protected have gone unheeded.

While the loss of farm land is an issue of serious magnitude, there is also the need to examine a number of allied matters that need important findings by way of intensive research. For example, the need to examine economic returns of farm lands being used for non-agricultural purposes is one such. There is thus the need for research not just to update the available farm lands including those being reportedly reclaimed, but also to disseminate findings on a host of inter-related matters to facilitate macro planning.

It is here that the need for a comprehensive master plan becomes crucial-one that can identify the problems and suggest measures to address them as well as find ways to utilise arable lands in the most efficient manner.​

 

[Saif]

Elephant trapped in mud rescued after 22 hours

The rescue operation, which took place around 5:00pm yesterday, was conducted by the Forest Department with the help of around 35 villagers

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Elephant trapped in mud rescued after 22 hours

Photo: Collected

An elephant that got stuck in the mud in the Chunati Wildlife Sanctuary in Banshkhali upazila was rescued after 22 hours.

The rescue operation, which took place around 5:00pm yesterday, was conducted by the Forest Department with the help of around 35 villagers.

Anisuzzaman Sheikh, ranger of the Jaldee Range of the Forest Department, told The Daily Star that they were informed about the trapped elephant around 7:00pm on Wednesday.

"We began rescue operations around 8:00am today [Thursday]," he said.

The female elephant is around 40 years old.

Anisuzzaman said after the rescue, the elephant was given saline water to help rehydrate.

"We have requested veterinarians from the Dulahazara Safari Park to treat the elephant," he added.​

 

[Saif]

No alternative to restore Dhaka canals: Rizwana

She said this while visiting Baunia canal at Mirpur and Khidir canal at Uttara.

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No alternative to restore Dhaka canals: Rizwana

Photo: Helemul Alam

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said there is no alternative to excavating the canals to solve Dhaka's waterlogging issues and restoration of water flow in the canals is a must.

During a visit in Baunia canal at Mirpur and Khidir canal at Uttara, she said that preserving these canals is essential to maintaining the city's biodiversity.

She also said, "Dhaka North City Corporation has already begun excavating six canals, and by the end of this year, a total of 19 canals will be restored. This initiative will not only prevent flooding but also help replenish the groundwater level."

DNCC administrator Mohammad Azaz said, "We have taken initiatives to recover and excavate canals, alongside eviction drives to remove illegal encroachments. The progress of these development activities is already visible. Additionally, to prevent water pollution, we are working to disconnect untreated sewage lines from buildings."

He said they have met leaders from Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara societies, instructing them to install ETPs (Effluent Treatment Plants) in every building within a short timeframe.

Meanwhile, DNCC and DSCC have launched a restoration programme for 19 canals. The first phase, which started on February 2 involves restoring six canals -- four in DNCC (Baunia, Karail, Rupnagar, and Begunbari) and two in DSCC (Manda and Kalunagar).

The programme includes boundary demarcation, canal cleaning, bank protection, and the development of a blue network to enhance water flow and connectivity across the city.​

 

[Saif]

Don’t let river grabbers contest polls

Rights organisation Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB) yesterday submitted a memorandum to the Election Commission requesting it to amend the Representation of the People Order (RPO), incorporating a provision to disqualify the river polluters and encroachers from elections.

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Don’t let river grabbers contest polls
HRPB urges EC to amend RPO

Rights organisation Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB) yesterday submitted a memorandum to the Election Commission requesting it to amend the Representation of the People Order (RPO), incorporating a provision to disqualify the river polluters and encroachers from elections.

A delegation of HRPB led by its president Advocate Manzill Murshid placed the memorandum to the EC at its office.

Earlier, the High Court in 2016 ordered a provision in this regard.

The Supreme Court also suggested that the grabbers and polluters should be disqualified from contesting the elections.

Despite the suggestions, no law has been formulated in this regard, said HRPB.​

 

[Krishna with Flute]

This is early morning in India and I am getting ready to host a tree plantation program our township where I have planted over 9500 trees including Miyawaki forests. We have about 85 varieties of tree. Township has almost become a bird sanctuary. One can hear bird sound through out the day.

 

[Bilal9]

Bangladesh must switch to hollow blocks to reduce pollution

Clay bricks cost Tk 12 per piece. A hollow block, which is four times larger than a clay brick, is priced at Tk 50.

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Bangladesh must switch to hollow blocks to reduce pollution
Says Concord Group Managing Director Shahriar Kamal

View attachment 13509

Clay bricks cost Tk 12 per piece. A hollow block, which is four times larger than a clay brick, is priced at Tk 50.

This price difference suggests a competitive edge for clay bricks in the construction market.

But the true cost of traditional bricks extends far beyond their purchase price.

Overlooked factors include Dhaka's frequent ranking as one of the world's most polluted cities. This severe air pollution, largely caused by brick kilns, is responsible for a tragically shortened lifespan for many people.

"This cannot continue," said Shahriar Kamal, managing director of the construction conglomerate Concord Group, in an interview with The Daily Star. "To reduce pollution, we need to switch to green alternatives as soon as possible."

Kamal's firm has been producing concrete and hollow blocks since 1998.

They built the 17-acre Lake City Concord township in Dhaka entirely without using a single clay brick. This township comprises 14 buildings, each rising to 16 storeys.

Given the longstanding reliance on clay bricks in the local construction sector, questions naturally arise regarding the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and urgency of transitioning to hollow blocks.

Traditional brick kilns extract clay by stripping topsoil from fertile lands, resulting in an annual loss of around 1 percent of the country's arable land.

This practice not only devastates agricultural productivity but also involves the burning of vast amounts of coal and wood, releasing harmful particulates and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

"The process is unsustainable," said Kamal. "As construction demand increases each year, the environmental toll intensifies."

In contrast, hollow blocks are manufactured using a more sustainable approach. They are produced with materials such as fly ash, cement, and other industrial by-products. This process does not require burning, as the blocks are simply dried.

According to Kamal, hollow blocks are lighter but have superior strength. Therefore, they are suitable for construction in earthquake-prone regions like Bangladesh.

"Buildings constructed with hollow blocks are much lighter than those built with traditional bricks," he explained. "This reduced weight offers an advantage during earthquakes, minimising the risk of collapse and subsequent casualties."

According to the Managing Director of Concord Group, although hollow blocks offer many advantages, the adoption rate of eco-friendly bricks remains low. Only 5-8 percent of bricks currently in use are eco-friendly.

For the slow shift, he said a lack of awareness among builders, insufficient training for construction workers in the use of these blocks, and a strong entrenched preference for traditional bricks are responsible.

"Many workers are not familiar with how to work with these blocks," said Kamal. "For example, traditional bricks require soaking before use, whereas hollow blocks are installed dry."

"We arranged training for the workers several times," he said, "but this effort needs to be scaled up with government support to ensure nationwide adoption."

Kamal acknowledged that cost is another barrier to the widespread adoption of eco-friendly bricks.

"While eco-friendly bricks may have a slightly higher initial cost compared to traditional bricks, they offer long-term savings," he commented. "Proper planning and mindful design can reduce overall construction costs by about 15 percent."

In 2020, the government announced a policy to replace traditional bricks with eco-friendly blocks in all public projects. This policy aimed to achieve a 10 percent adoption rate in fiscal year (FY) 2019-20, with a gradual phasing out of clay bricks by FY25.

However, slack monitoring and enforcement have hindered progress towards these ambitious goals.

"Implementation is key," Kamal stressed. "We need strong inter-ministerial coordination, led by the Ministry of Environment, to oversee the implementation of these policies. Regulatory bodies like Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) must also play a crucial role by enforcing these targets in private-sector construction projects."

He pointed to successful examples from countries like China and India, where the adoption of eco-friendly bricks has been accelerated through a combination of financial incentives, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and comprehensive public awareness campaigns.

Kamal said their facilities have the capacity to manufacture 200,000 eco-friendly bricks, blocks, and tiles every eight hours. But, without enough demand, they cannot operate at full capacity.

He called for a range of policy measures to stimulate demand, including financial incentives for manufacturers of eco-friendly building materials and penalties on polluting industries to ensure accountability.

"The polluters must pay," he commented.

"This isn't just about bricks," he said. "It's about rethinking how we build our cities and protect our people. Change is difficult, but it is necessary — and it begins with each of us."

Currently, the size of the traditional brick industry is around Tk 9,000 crore, while the concrete block market is only at Tk 200 crore.

Bangladesh produces an estimated 2,300 crore bricks annually. Concrete blocks currently account for a relatively small share of this market, constituting roughly 6-7 percent of the total.

There are 164 registered factories producing concrete blocks, with an annual production capacity of 214 crore blocks. However, considering the unregistered factories, the total number is more than 250.

Kamal said the concrete block market is projected to capture up to 50 percent of the market share by 2030, due mainly to government policies and a steadily increasing demand for sustainable building materials.

He said large-scale factories have heavily invested in automated production units, often imported from China, with typical investments ranging from Tk 30-Tk 50 crore. Mid-sized factories have also invested in modernising their production lines, with typical investments ranging from Tk 5-Tk 6 crore.

Major industry players, including Concord, Mir Group, BTI, and Meghna, currently collectively control nearly 20 percent of the hollow block market.​

For Low-rise structural construction (and high-rise non-structural curtain wall usage in lieu of drywall/gypsum-board sheet), Bangladesh needs to switch to Aircrete (AAC) blocks now which is quiet a bit lighter, almost half as much. As Bangladesh high-rises are increasingly built of steel beams nowadays instead of RCC, this could alleviate any settling problems in the foundation.

Plus Aircrete (AAC) blocks and pre-fab walls are by nature far better insulators, saving on heating or cooling energy, setting superior ecological precedent than current construction materials used in South Asia.

Aircrete blocks are significantly lighter than regular concrete blocks, with densities typically ranging from 460 to 730 kg/m³, while regular dense concrete blocks are much heavier (By spec should have a minimum block-density of around 1500 kg/m³). This reduced weight makes Aircrete blocks much easier to handle and install, contributing to lower labor costs and faster construction times.

Aerated concrete (AAC) or ‘Aircrete’ blocks are the lightest of the family of concrete blocks. Aerated blocks are distinguished by their capacity to perform a dual structural / insulation function. Though limited to structural applications in low-rise construction and partitions as well as a component of curtain walling in higher buildings, aerated blocks can perform a similar range of functions as dense and lightweight blocks.

Here is more info,

https://www.aircrete.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Engine-Only-model-supplies-the-heart-of-an-AAC-panel-plant-for-the-South-East-Asia-Markets.pdf

And a video. Granted Western usage but could be adapted to South Asian situation.

 

[Saif]

A major quake striking BD not a remote possibility

The frequent low-intensity tremors felt in various parts of Bangladesh due to earthquakes in neighbouring countries serve as a grim reminder of the country's seismic vulnerability. Over the past 10 days, Bangladesh has experienced four earthquakes. The most recent one, on Wednesday, had its epicent

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

A major quake striking BD not a remote possibility
Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Mar 08, 2025 22:53
Updated :
Mar 08, 2025 23:06
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The frequent low-intensity tremors felt in various parts of Bangladesh due to earthquakes in neighbouring countries serve as a grim reminder of the country's seismic vulnerability. Over the past 10 days, Bangladesh has experienced four earthquakes. The most recent one, on Wednesday, had its epicentre approximately 449 kilometres from Dhaka in the border region between India and Myanmar. Despite the distance, it sent a moderate shockwave through Dhaka, registering a magnitude of 5.6 on the Richter scale.

The frequency of low to moderate-intensity earthquakes has been steadily increasing in recent years. According to the Meteorological Department, 28 earthquakes were recorded in Bangladesh and nearby regions in 2017. This number rose to 41 in 2023 and further increased to 54 last year, marking the highest number in eight years.

Even though tremors originating from nearby countries may not always directly and severely impact the country, it does not mean Bangladesh is at a safe distance or that earthquakes pose no real threat. In reality, Bangladesh lies in an active earthquake zone, situated near the meeting points of three major tectonic plates and four active seismic sources in the Bay of Bengal, which have the potential to generate tremors exceeding 7.0 in magnitude. Experts warn that the series of small quakes frequently shaking Dhaka, Sylhet, and Chittagong could be precursors to a devastating seismic event.

Indeed, seismologists have long warned that a powerful earthquake is not a matter of 'if' but 'when.' The fact that Bangladesh has not experienced a major tremor in the past two hundred years only increases the likelihood of a catastrophic event. The last major earthquake to impact the region was the 1897 Great Indian Earthquake of the Shillong Plateau, which jolted the northeastern part of the country with a magnitude of 8.7.

An earthquake often proves more devastating than other natural calamities because, unlike storms, floods, and droughts, it cannot be predicted with precision. When prevention is impossible, the focus must shift to damage limitation, immediate rescue, relief, and rehabilitation. But is Bangladesh prepared?

While the country has experience in dealing with floods and cyclones, it lacks the capacity to handle a major earthquake. In past incidents, when multi-storied structures collapsed for various reasons, the fire service took an inordinately long time to clear the rubble. Even in cases of fire outbreaks, the fire department struggles to bring blazes under control swiftly. This highlights the lack of advanced equipment and expertise required for clearing debris, cutting through concrete, and rescuing trapped victims. A key priority, therefore, should be to equip the Fire Service and Civil Defence, along with other emergency response organisations, with the necessary resources.

A major earthquake presents the grim prospect of a human catastrophe in Bangladesh, primarily due to the prevalence of a substantial number of unsafe buildings. An estimate suggests that 72,000 out of 2.1 million structures in Dhaka are highly unstable. However, no significant measures have been taken to demolish these buildings or relocate and rehabilitate their residents. Following the Rana Plaza collapse, BUET proposed a comprehensive initiative to classify Dhaka's buildings based on earthquake resistance. Under this plan, high-risk buildings were to be marked red, moderate-risk structures yellow, and earthquake-resistant buildings green. However, this crucial assessment remains incomplete for most structures. The authorities, therefore, must prioritise identifying high-risk buildings, demolishing unsafe structures, and reinforcing weaker ones.

Earthquake preparedness demands massive preparation, investment in advanced rescue equipment, comprehensive emergency response training and raising public awareness. Without immediate and decisive action, a catastrophic loss of life remains an imminent threat.​

 

[Saif]

Choking on apathy and neglect

Urgent actions needed to tackle our air pollution crisis

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Choking on apathy and neglect
Urgent actions needed to tackle our air pollution crisis

VISUAL: STAR

It is disappointing that Bangladesh and the landlocked nation Chad have been ranked as the world's most polluted countries in 2024, with their average smog levels exceeding WHO guidelines by more than 15 times, according to Swiss air quality monitoring firm IQAir. It is little wonder, then, that air pollution causes 102,456 deaths in Bangladesh every year, as the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) recently estimated. Other studies over the years have painted a similarly grim picture. These findings should spur frantic efforts to reverse this trend. The question is, why don't they?

The CREA study highlighted that young children are particularly vulnerable, with 5,258 annual deaths from PM2.5-related lower respiratory infections. It estimated that controlling air pollution could prevent 5,254 child deaths each year and avert 29,920 deaths from heart disease, 23,075 from strokes, 20,976 from COPD, 9,720 from pneumonia, and 3,063 from lung cancer. Additionally, pollution-related illnesses lead to 669,000 emergency hospital visits annually and 263 million lost workdays, significantly harming the economy. Similarly, a World Bank report estimated air pollution caused between 78,145 and 88,229 deaths in Bangladesh in 2019. Another study found it shortens the average Bangladeshi's life expectancy by 6.8 years. Despite these staggering consequences, successive governments have taken minimal action. Vehicle pollution remains high, industrial and power plant emissions go largely unregulated, and construction activities and waste burning continue unchecked.

The persistently high pollution levels highlight not only a lack of ambition in policymaking but also a failure to enforce existing regulations. The absence of regular monitoring mechanisms to uphold air quality standards is another major shortcoming. In spite of these failures, the responsible authorities are never held accountable. This must change. Despite concerns caused by the recent US decision to end a programme that many countries relied on for air quality data, the government must take responsibility for developing its own robust air quality monitoring and improvement systems. Investing in its own air quality monitoring infrastructure would be a crucial first step.

Bangladesh also needs to adopt a multi-pronged approach to tackle the deteriorating air quality. Stricter enforcement of emission regulations for industries and vehicles is essential. Brick kilns and factories—both major polluters—must be required to use modern filtration systems, while large-scale afforestation and urban greening initiatives should be undertaken to help absorb pollutants. Construction activities should also be regulated with dust-control measures, and waste burning should be strictly prohibited. Ultimately, the government and other stakeholders must realise that without urgent, science-backed intervention, the country risks an even graver public health and economic crisis in the coming days.​

 

[Saif]

Sink-based solutions can ease Chattogram's waterlogging

Sustainable solutions is needed for Chattogram's waterlogging problem.

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Sink-based solutions can ease Chattogram's waterlogging

Between 1989 and 2011, approximately 15 percent of the exposed land in the Sholakbahar ward of the city was converted into various types of built-up areas, increasing the risk of waterlogging. FILE PHOTO: PALASH KHAN

Waterlogging in our port city in recent years has caused enormous suffering and economic loss. The government of Bangladesh has recently initiated efforts to find sustainable solutions to this problem. This hydro-climatic disaster occurs when the amount of source water exceeds what the sinks can accommodate. A better understanding of the sources and sinks of water will foster sustainable solutions to this issue.

Waterlogging primarily occurs during the monsoon season, characterised by heavy rainfall. A practical solution entails—(i) identifying the sinks and (ii) enhancing their capacity to ensure that the volume of water from the source does not surpass it. Furthermore, we must tackle the factors that diminish the capacity of sinks, such as landfilling, the removal of hills, and eutrophication, among others.

Inland water bodies

The most easily accessible water sink is the inland water bodies, which include ponds, lakes, canals, and drainage networks. To get a rapid solution to waterlogging, we must increase the water-retention capacity of these inland water bodies. Dredging is a proven method to enhance the volume of water that reservoirs can hold. Additionally, dredging boosts interactions between lake water and groundwater. However, it is vital to manage the dredged materials properly, as mismanagement can cause them to return to the water bodies shortly thereafter.

During heavy rainfall on certain days in the rainy season, a significant volume of water rapidly accumulates on the surface. This extra water necessitates enhanced drainage systems to keep the city free from flooding. Expanding and deepening the canals could increase their capacity to handle excess water. Furthermore, we could construct new lakes and drainage systems within the city, particularly in the areas most affected; this approach could significantly enhance the water retention capacity.

Alongside enhancing the capacity of the sinks, it is equally crucial to mitigate factors that restrict the volume of sinks—(i) landfilling in any form must cease immediately; (ii) hill-cutting should be halted as it generates a large volume of clastic sediment, much of it ends up at the bottom of inland water bodies; (iii) strict solid waste management must be enforced to prevent any forms of solid waste, such as non-degradable plastics and household materials, from entering the drainage system as solid waste can restrict flow velocity and reduce the water retention capacity of reservoirs; and (iv) chemical and bio-waste from domestic and industrial sources should be segregated and disposed of separately since inland water bodies gradually lose volume due to harmful algal blooms and eutrophication, exacerbated by increased nutrient levels from such waste.

The groundwater sink

Groundwater is a crucial destination for rainwater through the process of infiltration. Unfortunately, this aspect is often overlooked when planning to eliminate waterlogging. The reduction of open land restricts the infiltration process. Consequently, a substantial volume of water overflows that should ideally transfer into the groundwater; an increase in surface water heightens the likelihood of waterlogging. A research paper published by the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Chittagong finds that between 1989 and 2011, approximately 15 percent of the exposed land in the Sholakbahar ward of the city was converted into various types of built-up areas. The situation is presumably similar in other wards of the city corporation. Reducing such a significant amount of open space presents a serious risk of waterlogging.

Increasing the amount of open space is a potential measure to ensure accelerated infiltration. Additionally, we could construct tiny artificial ponds throughout the city, designed with coarser rocks at the bottom, as fine-grained particles limit infiltration. The ponds need not be large; they could be situated along the streets in a manner that also contributes to the city's beautification. Furthermore, we can plan to establish recharge wells and soak pits to enhance infiltration into the groundwater.

Impermeable streets also impede groundwater recharge. Permeable city roads can be constructed to facilitate the percolation of more water from the lane into the ground.

By implementing the aforementioned sink-based solutions, the city's waterlogging problems can be eased. In addition to tackling waterlogging, these measures will enhance functional hydrology and foster a clean aquatic environment that aligns with biodiversity.

Mohib Billah is doctoral researcher in the Department of Geography and Geology at the University of Turku in Finland.​

 

[Saif]

Over 600 trees felled at Dinjapur’s Karai Beel; case filed

A case has been filed following the felling of over 600 fruit-bearing and timber trees at Karai Beel, a once-thriving natural sanctuary renowned for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, in Dinajpur’s Biral upazila

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Over 600 trees felled at Dinjapur’s Karai Beel; case filed

Photo: Kongkon Karmaker

A case has been filed following the felling of over 600 fruit-bearing and timber trees at Karai Beel, a once-thriving natural sanctuary renowned for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, in Dinajpur's Biral upazila.

The beel is situated alongside Ramsagar and Sukhsagar, two of Dinajpur's largest manmade waterbodies. Karai Beel has long been a vital ecological and agricultural resource.

The large-scale tree felling, allegedly carried out by leaders of the Biral Muktijoddha Poultry and Livestock Cooperative Society, has raised serious concerns among local residents and environmental activists.

Yesterday, locals seized the felled trees and filed a case against two named individuals and 10-12 unidentified persons for illegal logging.

According to the First Information Report, the primary suspects in the case are Aibur Rahman 68, of Biral upazila and Jobaidur Rahman 55, a timber trader from West Ramnagar Gobrapara under Dinajpur Sadar upazila and the district president of Matsyajibi Dal.

Photo: Kongkon Karmaker

Karai Beel spans 56.10 acres in Shankarpur Mouza and is classified as state property.

On Monday afternoon, the accused, along with several others, were seen cutting trees around the beel and transporting them using tractors.

Receiving information, the union land official rushed to the scene and seized the felled trees.

However, one tractor carrying 55 mango trees had already been moved elsewhere.

Authorities managed to confiscate an additional 170 mango trees, two jackfruit trees, and 1,489 cubic feet of firewood before further transportation.

Forest officials confirmed that the logging was done without obtaining prior authorisation.

"As per regulations, any tree felling must be reported to the local Forest Department. However, we were not informed about the cutting of Karai Beel's trees," said Mohsin Ali, beat officer of the Forest Department.

Following notification from the upazila administration, forest officials seized the logs and transported them to the local police station for further investigation.

Jobaidur Rahman, one of the accused, claimed to have legally purchased the trees through a tender process for Tk 4.1 lakh, with the amount deposited in Sonali Bank.

He asserted that cooperative leaders assured him they would settle the issue with the administration.

The Biral Muktijoddha Poultry and Livestock Cooperative Society was originally formed in 1974 by local freedom fighters, who leased Karai Beel from the government for fish farming. In 1977, the then president, Ziaur Rahman, allocated funds for digging a pond as part of a canal excavation programme, leading to the establishment of a tree plantation around the embankment.

Although society members later obtained ownership of the pond, the administration revoked their lease years later, leading to an ongoing land dispute in court, according to well placed sources of the government and cooperative body.

At a press conference today, Mokhsed Ali Mongolia, acting president of the cooperative and a BNP leader, denied any wrongdoing.

"The trees were not stolen but sold with the approval of the cooperative's general assembly," he said.

He further explained that after the July and August political unrest, the pond became vulnerable to looting, and the trees were no longer yielding fruit.

"We decided to cut them down and convert the area into a litchi orchard," he said.

Biral Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Ishtiaq Ahmed, who is overseeing the investigation, confirmed that legal action has been taken due to violations in axing over 600 trees under public property laws.

The cooperative leaders have failed to provide a valid explanation against the tree axing, added the UNO.​

 

[Saif]

Gorer Khal on its deathbed

Yet another example of a poorly executed project

www.thedailystar.net

Gorer Khal on its deathbed
Yet another example of a poorly executed project

It is appalling to witness our rivers, canals, and such water bodies die one after another due to encroachment, pollution, and mindless development. One such canal is Gorer Khal at the Baniachong upazila in Habiganj. According to a report, the 19.2-kilometre-long canal was once a lifeline for the region's agriculture, communication, and flood management. But it is now on the verge of death due to illegal encroachment, pollution, and siltation. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) took up a project at a cost of Tk 7.16 crore in FY 2022-23 to excavate and revive it but failed to do so. What, then, was the point of taking up such a project?

Clearly, the project was not properly planned or executed. Reportedly, while the project was underway, the authorities focused on digging the canal's branches instead of excavating its main body. Moreover, the excavation was allegedly conducted without proper land measurement or clearing encroachments. Additionally, the soil dug from the canal was piled up along its banks, which washed back into it during the monsoon. And although a total of 4,000 trees were supposed to be planted along the banks, this was not done either. All this explains why, around a year and a half into the work, the project has failed to bring any positive results.

Local residents also alleged corruption and misappropriation of funds by those who implemented it. Although the canal's situation has not improved at all, the project authorities have claimed that they did as far as they could, which shows their inefficiency and lack of sincerity. Unfortunately, the situation of Gorer Khal and the excavation project undertaken by the BWDB is not unique. Hundreds of such ill-executed projects can be found across the country. For instance, only the other day, a report published in this daily revealed how bridges built over the canals of Barguna were collapsing due to the use of poor-quality materials.

Corruption in development projects, whether large or small, was a recurring issue during the previous Awami League regime. This must come to an end. We urge the government to hold those responsible for such poorly planned projects accountable and reclaim canals like Gorer Khal to restore the vital lifelines of rural Bangladesh.​