Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced today that outdated buses contributing to Dhaka’s air pollution will be removed from the city streets.
“People in Dhaka will continue to suffer and die from air pollution if old buses are allowed to run. This will not be tolerated,” Rizwana told reporters following a meeting held at Bidyut Bhaban in the capital.
The meeting focused on addressing air pollution, improving discipline in the transport sector, and reducing traffic congestion in Dhaka. Rizwana stressed that the health of millions cannot be compromised for the interests of a few bus owners, urging them to take immediate action.
A taskforce has been formed to monitor and address air pollution. It will oversee road repairs, reduce dust, and regulate emissions from black smoke, brick kilns, and factories. Efforts will align with the Air Quality Management Plan, she added.
The government is also planning to declare Ashulia a “no-brick-kiln zone” to curb pollution. Additionally, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has been requested to lower taxes on air purifiers to improve accessibility.
Rizwana emphasized the importance of clearing footpaths of illegal encroachments to improve pedestrian safety and air quality.
The meeting, chaired by Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, was attended by Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain and Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, among others.
