Dhaka Tops in Pollution: How Can We Save the City?

Yusuf Chowdury: Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, recently claimed the unenviable title of the most polluted city in the world. For the nearly 22 million residents who call it home, pollution is no longer a distant concern—it’s an everyday battle. From smog-choked mornings to the ever-present scent of vehicle fumes, the symptoms of a city in crisis are impossible to ignore.

But how did Dhaka get here? And more importantly, how can we turn the tide before it’s too late?

What’s Causing Dhaka’s Alarming Pollution Levels?

Pollution in Dhaka is a multi-headed beast. Here’s a breakdown of the major culprits:

1. Brick Kilns

Over 1,000 traditional brick kilns operate around the outskirts of Dhaka. These kilns, often using outdated technology, burn coal and wood, spewing toxic particulates and greenhouse gases into the air.

2. Traffic Congestion and Vehicle Emissions

Dhaka’s traffic is infamous—not just for delays but for damage to health. The city’s aging fleet of buses, trucks, and private cars emit large amounts of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and PM2.5 particles, which are tiny enough to enter the bloodstream.

3. Unregulated Construction

With Dhaka expanding rapidly, construction is nonstop. Yet, many sites ignore dust-control measures. Open concrete mixing, lack of barriers, and improper waste disposal contribute heavily to airborne particulate matter.

4. Waste Mismanagement

Illegal dumping and the burning of plastic waste release dioxins and other harmful chemicals into the air. The lack of a proper waste segregation and recycling infrastructure exacerbates the issue.

The Health Impacts: A Silent Killer

Pollution is not just an environmental issue—it’s a public health emergency. Studies show:

• Dhaka’s residents inhale air with PM2.5 levels often 6–10 times higher than WHO recommendations.

• Children are developing respiratory diseases like asthma at alarming rates.

• Long-term exposure is increasing the prevalence of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature deaths.

Doctors report a sharp increase in patients suffering from chronic coughs, fatigue, and skin issues directly linked to poor air quality.

What Can Be Done to Save Dhaka?

Turning the tide requires immediate, multifaceted action. Here are proven strategies that could work:

1. Modernize Brick Kilns

Switching to cleaner technologies like Zigzag kilns or hybrid Hoffman kilns can reduce emissions by up to 60%. Government subsidies and stricter enforcement could accelerate adoption.

2. Introduce a Clean Public Transport Network

Cities like Bogotá and Delhi have seen success by implementing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems and electric buses. Dhaka can reduce congestion and emissions with similar upgrades.

3. Enforce Construction Site Regulations

Mandatory use of water sprays, dust barriers, and covered trucks can drastically reduce airborne particles from construction zones.

4. Plant Urban Forests and Green Barriers

Adding green belts, rooftop gardens, and urban forests can absorb CO₂ and trap dust. Trees like neem and banyan are particularly effective for urban air purification.

5. Implement a Smart Waste Management System

This includes:

• Banning open burning of waste

• Incentivizing recycling

• Establishing decentralized composting units

• Promoting community awareness on waste segregation

6. Air Quality Monitoring and Transparency

Publicly accessible air quality data via apps and digital billboards can keep residents informed and pressure authorities to act.

Learning from Other Cities: Case Studies That Inspire

• Beijing, China: Once among the most polluted cities, Beijing reduced PM2.5 by over 30% in just five years through industrial relocation, vehicle restrictions, and green energy incentives.

• Delhi, India: Despite challenges, Delhi has introduced odd-even vehicle schemes and a ban on firecrackers during peak pollution seasons.

• Los Angeles, USA: Stringent emission controls and investment in clean energy helped it go from smog capital in the 1970s to a much cleaner city today.

Community Involvement: The Game Changer

Policies alone won’t save Dhaka. Public participation is key. Here’s how citizens can contribute:

• Use Public Transport or Carpool

• Avoid Burning Trash

• Support Clean Businesses

• Pressure Local Representatives for Change

• Educate Others on Pollution Risks

Even small actions, when multiplied, can reshape a city.

Conclusion: A Breath of Hope

Dhaka’s pollution crisis is undeniable, but it’s not insurmountable. With smart policies, modern technologies, and collective effort, we can rewrite the narrative. From the murky skies of today can rise a greener, healthier tomorrow—if we act now.

Let’s not wait for another generation to suffer. Let’s start saving Dhaka today.

Writer: Yusuf Chowdury
CEO & Managing Director
Zoom Bangla Pvt. Ltd.