Dhaka, June 30 (V7N) — The government has adopted short-, medium- and long-term plans to tackle the worsening air pollution in the country, with a focus on coordinated efforts across agencies. This was announced by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor on Water Resources and Environment, Forest and Climate Change, following a meeting with a visiting team of Chinese air pollution control experts at the Secretariat on Monday.

The advisor said that as part of immediate measures, repair work on dilapidated roads will be completed before the onset of winter—by October—to reduce dust pollution in Dhaka.

“Old and expired vehicles will be phased out from the streets, and the government has decided to purchase 250 new vehicles to modernize the fleet,” she added.

A no-brick field zone will also be declared around Dhaka to help curb harmful emissions. “This year we aim to provide some relief to city dwellers by reducing dust pollution,” Rizwana Hasan said.

She emphasized the need for an integrated approach, noting, “Reducing air pollution requires short, medium and long-term planning. The government will also work with China and other partners to learn from international best practices and improve the country's air quality.”

END/RH/AJ