DHAKA, May 17: Heads of various political parties in Bangladesh have criticised the interim government for its less than satisfactory performance, particularly its inability in tackling environmental issues in the last nine months.
After blaming the ex-PM Sheikh Hasina led Awami League government of damaging the environment for development, political leaders slammed the interim government at a discussion titled ‘Thoughts of Political Parties on Building an Environment-Friendly City,’ held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity today, reports Business Standard BD.
Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolan, said, “Our problems were supposed to decrease, but they are increasing. We are not even aware of our challenges. Our development is still in a colonial style. Environmental protection is not effective now.
“All development plans must be adapted to our natural environment. Laws exist, but they are not enforced. Those in power must be held accountable. Should environmental clearance be granted based on compliance or money We expected change from the interim government, but we have not seen it.”
Barrister Sunny Abdul Haque, joint general secretary of AB Party, said, “In the name of urban expansion, we are constructing high-rise buildings without consideration. We need ecological buffer zones. Rainwater harvesting must be promoted to reduce groundwater pressure.”
He said conservation measures are vital in densely populated areas, advocating for the introduction of eco-friendly transport systems and introduction of separate lanes for cyclists. He stressed that political parties should commit to a green manifesto before the elections, clearly outlining how they will address the city’s environmental challenges.
Md Rashed Khan, general secretary of Gono Odhikar Parishad, said, “Looking at Dhaka reflects the overall state of the country. Environment is at the core of everything. Even under the interim government, we see constant development projects. Roads remain dug up for months, increasing pollution and accidents. This was not expected during their tenure.”
Talking about the capital’s dismal condition, he added “Dhaka ranks among the worst in air pollution, and the traffic system is in disarray. Former mayors share the responsibility for this.
“We have not seen proper accountability in the last nine months. Our party has carried out programmes focused on environmental issues, and if we are given the responsibility of the state, we will prioritise the environment.”
The criticism comes amid growing public concern over rising air and water pollution, unregulated industrial waste, rampant deforestation, and the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters.
Bangladesh-widely considered as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change-has seen an extreme deterioration of environmental conditions in major urban areas, particularly Dhaka, which frequently ranks among the cities with the worst air quality in the world.
(UNI)