CHATTOGRAM, Nov 14: Air pollution has aggravated in the port city in recent times causing different types of diseases to the dwellers.
According to the Department of Environment (DoE), the dust in air in Chattogram city is 3,500 ppm (parts par million) now. If the dust is more than 100 ppm, the air is polluted and becomes risky for health.
Pollution of air has increased due to the digging of Chattogram WASA and mega projects like construction of elevated express way, the city dwellers said.
Administrator of Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Khorshed Alam Sujan said, "Now, Chattogram city is a city of air pollution. Dust is flying in space due to the development projects. We requested all not to carry the materials of development projects openly as they (materials) create air pollution. We have published advertisements and tried to create awareness in this regard."
Managing Director of Chattogram WASA Engineer AKM Fazlullah said, "The digging of roads by WASA is creating pollution in the city. As dry season has started, we are showering waters at the project areas of WASA to reduce air pollution."
Air pollution caused by black smoke emission by unfit vehicles and dust from open space has increased bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory-related diseases among the city dwellers, physicians said.
Dr Mizanur Rahman, a physician said, "Now, people of Chattogram city area are living in high health risks due to air pollution."
Environmentalist Professor Md Edris Ali expressed concern saying if dust is not controlled in time, the city of more than 6.0 million dwellers will be more hazardous.
DoE, Chattogram sources said the pollution is very high in a few jam-packed places of the city including Strand Road, Majhirghat, Bahaddarhat Crossing, Cement Crossing, Steel Mills Bazar and Bandartilla.
Officials of DoE in Chattogram said that DoE is continuing work for reducing air pollution.
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