Dhaka Declaration launched

Bangldaesh Paribesh Andolon Chairperson Prof. Jamilur Reza Choudhury speaks at the launching of Dhaka Declaration on environment at the National Press Club yesterday. PHOTO: STAR

The declaration, which contains 113 recommendations, aims at outlining future strategies at national, regional and international levels to protect the country from environmental degradation.

Bangladesh has to consolidate its stand to ensure its due environmental and business interests at any business dialogue under the World Trade Organisation (WTO), said Bapa Chairperson Prof. Jamilur Reza Choudhury while reading out the highlights of the declaration at the National Press Club.

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The declaration calls for inclusion of China, Nepal and Bhutan in the Joint River Commission to settle river disputes and frame policy for the mutual benefits of the transboundary river basin countries.

It recommended that all professional groups, socio-cultural organisations, community leaders and the mass media of the country should play an important role to make the environmental movement a success.

All the encroachers must be evicted from the banks of the Buriganga and all the other rivers and water bodies be freed from illegal occupation to protect riverine environment and ensure navigability, the declaration said.

To contain air pollution, it suggested use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in all vehicles and supply of natural gas to rural areas.

It also calls for proper use donors' funds in mitigating arsenic contamination.

The declaration recommends proper enforcement of the environmental laws relating to industrial liquid and gaseous waste management.

It called for adopting a policy to reward the industries that abide by the environment laws and punish the polluters.

Other recommendations include installation of a safe and independent system for clinical waste management, strict prohibition on the use of firewood in the brickfield, encouraging renewable solar and windmill energy, and approval of the National Building Code.

As an environmental forum, the Bapa put pressure on the government to take steps for protection of the environment, said Prof. Choudhury.

Bapa Vice-Chairmen Prof. Abdullah Abu Sayeed and ASM Shahjahan, General Secretary Abu Naser Khan, Treasurer Prof. Amirul Islam Choudhury were also present.