Strict measures needed to control air pollution

The air quality in Bangladesh is deteriorating day by day. According to a recent study, people in Bangladesh stand to lose 6.8 years of life on average due to air pollution. The research study conducted by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago says that rising air pollution can cut life expectancy by more than five years per person in South Asia -- one of the world's most polluted regions. The region, which includes Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, accounts for more than half of the total life years lost globally to pollution, says the research in its latest Air Quality Life Index.

In urban areas of Bangladesh, high levels of hazardous gas, dust and smoke emissions from factories have contributed to the worsening air quality. The brick kilns also contribute to the emissions. The ever-increasing number of vehicles on the roads has increased vehicular emissions further reducing the air quality. Every year, many deaths in the country are reportedly caused by air pollution-related illnesses.

The absence of widespread forest cover and the burning of waste, crops, etc have aggravated the problem. People living in urban areas often experience problems with breathing, throat and eye irritation, and increased risks of cardiac arrest. It is worth mentioning that poor environmental conditions also affect one's mental health.

Environmental problems have long been in the forefront. Yet the authorities concerned hardly take any serious action to limit the problem. The factories emitting hazardous smoke sould be urged to switch to renewable options. Similarly, vehicles' emissions should be tested and if their smoke levels exceed environmental standards then vehicle owners should be fined. Public awareness campaigns should be initiated to discourage people from cutting trees and burning waste.

Sirazi Shahjahan,

Malibagh, Dhaka,

mshaju001@gmail.com