Environment Adviser Launches National Air Quality Action Plan

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, announced the launch of the National Air Quality Management Action Plan today, outlining strategic actions to combat air pollution in Bangladesh. The plan focuses on addressing pollution sources, enhancing air quality monitoring, and strengthening enforcement mechanisms to ensure cleaner air across both urban and rural areas.

Speaking as the chief guest at the event held at the Department of Environment in Dhaka, Hasan emphasized that the action plan is part of Bangladesh’s broader environmental strategy to meet sustainable development targets. It includes promoting cleaner technologies in industries, transportation, and urban development while implementing stringent regulations to curb pollution levels.

Hasan highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to successfully execute the plan. The goal is to improve public health and protect future generations from the detrimental effects of pollution.

The launch event was attended by key officials, including the Environment Secretary, Director General of the Department of Environment, World Bank representatives, environmental organizations, and media. Key discussions focused on integrating air quality management into national policies, advancing monitoring technologies, and raising public awareness about the health risks of pollution.

In a related initiative, Adviser Rizwana Hasan also launched new software to automate the environmental clearance process at the Department of Environment. The platform allows entrepreneurs to submit online applications, upload documents, track progress, and make payments digitally, streamlining the clearance and renewal process. This initiative aims to reduce paperwork, enhance transparency, and improve data security, while ensuring more efficient coordination with relevant agencies.