Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP) organized a discussion session titled ‘Vulnerable Environment, Colorless Dhaka: Vision for Recovery’ on Monday, June 10th at 4:00 PM, at the Sufia Kamal Bhaban located at 10/B/1 Segunbagicha in Dhaka. The session’s objective was to raise awareness among city residents about the health crisis and the various challenges stemming from environmental pollution and climate change. Dr. Fauzia Moslem, president of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, chaired the session, and the welcome address was given by Adv. Masuda Rehana Begum, the Joint General Secretary of BMP.
Dr. Nabaneeta Islam, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Architecture at the University of Asia Pacific presented a written statement on behalf of the Central Committee. The respected panel of critics included Ikbal Habib, Co-Vice President of Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA); Prof. Shayer Ghafur from the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET); Shamsul Huda, Executive Director of the Association for Land Reform and Development (ALRD); Prof. Adil Muhammad Khan, President of Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP) and Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at Jahangirnagar University; and Rashed Ahmed, journalist of Daily New Age.
Dr. Nabaneeta Islam drew attention to the urgent need for climate action to address the challenges faced by women due to environmental degradation in Dhaka. Rapid urbanization, pollution, and loss of green spaces are contributing to health risks like low birth weight and infant mortality. She calls for coordinated efforts to reduce air pollution, preserve green spaces, and involve women in climate action to protect the well-being of women and children.
Women in urban areas are at increased risk from climate change, despite a decrease in dengue infection rates, due to diminishing green spaces and rising health hazards for youth. Political leaders must prioritize environmental protection and involve women in decision-making to effectively address these challenges.
Dr. Fauzia Moslem emphasized the vital role of women in environmental conservation in the President’s speech. She highlighted the strong connection women have with the environment, noting the unique weather conditions in different locations. The fragile environment in Dhaka is adversely impacting the health of women and children, underscoring the urgent need to address and tackle environmental challenges in the city.
In her welcome speech, Adv. Masuda Rehana Begum highlighted the environmental crisis in Bangladesh, particularly the impact on women and children. She highlighted Dhaka’s unplanned development, lack of infrastructure, overpopulation, and environmental pollution. The meeting’s objective is to discuss strategies to transform Dhaka into a green city and tackle environmental issues effectively.
Bangladesh Mahila Parishad’s central and Dhaka city committees, along with their leadership, secretarial team, staff, and journalists, participated in the opinion exchange meeting.
The program was conducted by Parvin Islam, environment secretary of BMP.
