Political leaders slam interim govt over environmental failures

Leaders from various political parties expressed disappointment over the interim government's environmental performance over the past nine months.

At a discussion titled "Thoughts of Political Parties on Building an Environment-Friendly City," held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity today, they also accused the former Awami League government of damaging the environment in the name of development.

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. Eco-friendly transport systems are crucial, and separate lanes for cyclists could be introduced. 

Sunny 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. The 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."

He added, "In 53 years, we have seen looting and extortion. 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."

Abdur Rahman of Islami Andolan Bangladesh stated, "There is no accountability. How can we protect the city's environment when everyone is focused on personal interest? Previous mayors showed no real concern for the city. Administrators alone cannot fix the problem—an elected mayor is necessary to organise the city properly."

Professor Mohammad Jasim Uddin of Dhaka University's Botany Department said, "If a palash flower blooms, 50 birds gather around. Dhaka once had 1,200 plant species, but now more than 50% are foreign species. One person needs seven trees, but we have only one tree for every seven people."

Nilufar Chowdhury Moni, assistant secretary for self-reliance affairs of the BNP, said, "During the Awami League's tenure, we saw trees being cut, not planted. There were various projects meant to prevent environmental degradation and address climate change, but these ended up harming the environment. The mafia has changed, but the situation remains the same."