Dhaka's Air Quality Worsens; Masks Advised for Residents

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has also advised vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

To keep the public informed, the department regularly updates air quality data on its official website, and residents are encouraged to monitor this information closely to take appropriate precautions. This advisory was issued in a press release by the ministry on Tuesday.

In addition, the ministry has called on everyone to take responsibility in reducing air pollution. Specific guidelines were issued for brick kiln owners, factory operators, and the general public:

Refrain from burning solid waste.
Install proper enclosures and covers at construction sites to minimize dust and emissions.
Keep construction materials adequately covered to prevent debris from scattering.
Ensure trucks and lorries carrying construction materials are fully covered to reduce particulate matter.
Spray water around construction areas at least twice a day to control dust.
Avoid operating old, smoke-emitting vehicles on the roads.
The government emphasized that addressing air pollution is a gradual process, and urged all stakeholders to work together to protect public health and improve air quality. The release concluded by reiterating the importance of collective action to tackle this growing environmental concern.