Prime Minister Tarique Rahman ordered the rapid preparation and effective implementation of an integrated action plan to prevent pollution in rivers surrounding Dhaka. He issued the instruction at a meeting on Buriganga River water and environmental improvement at the Cabinet Division conference room in Bangladesh Secretariat on the morning of August 6.

The meeting discussed the environmental condition, pollution sources, challenges and long-term remedies for the Buriganga, Turag, Balu, Shitalakkhya and other rivers near the capital. Untreated industrial discharge, inadequate sewerage and drainage, reduced canal navigability, and weak solid-waste management were identified as major causes. The prime minister stressed effective operation of effluent treatment plants, improved canals and drainage, regular drives against polluters, strict enforcement of environmental laws, stronger coordination and public awareness.

The meeting decided to form an inter-agency coordination committee under the Prime Minister’s Office to prepare and implement the plan. It will coordinate ministries, divisions and agencies, review progress at set intervals and submit reports to the Prime Minister’s Office. Environmental groups, voluntary organizations, educational institutions and local residents were also directed to be involved.