Dhaka's air pollution much higher than WHO criteria

The urban environmental problems in Bangladesh have taken a severe turn, says a press release issues by the World Bank. The poor air quality in urban area has been causing adverse impacts on the environment, health, and the people's general well-being. The concentration of the key air pollutant (Particulate Matter or PM) in Dhaka and other major cities has been steadily increasing over the years, with an annual average much higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) thresholds.
   The World Bank is supporting Bangladesh to improve air quality in major cities and safe mobility in Dhaka through the Clean Air and Sustainable Environment (CASE) Project. The two major components of the CASE project are environment, which includes addressing brick kiln emissions; and transport, which includes addressing traffic management and safety issues.
   Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) has floated the tender for construction of sidewalks and road improvement at Mohammadpur area and for construction of 5 user friendly foot over bridges in Dhaka. The DCC and Dhaka Transport Coordination Board (DTCB) are implementing the transport component of the project.
   DCC has also taken initiative for maintenance of existing traffic signals and synchronization of traffic signals along Mirpur Road Corridor. These initiatives are expected to reduce conflict between motorized and no
   0n-motorized transport leading to lesser traffic jam and safer and cleaner mobility for pedestrian and people using public transport. For longer-term improvement in urban transport, DTCB has initiated the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) feasibility study. DTCB had also taken steps to strengthen its institutional capacity.
   The Department of Environment (DOE) is addressing brick kiln emissions, and has taken initiative to pilot energy efficiency measures and cleaner technology in 6 existing Fixed Chimney Kiln (FCK) and 1 Zig-Zag Kiln. In addition, small scale clean brick making technology Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln (VSBK) is now being piloted at Savar.
   DOE is working to revise the brick burning act by mid 2011through stakeholder consultations and review of the regional experience. DOE has also been taking measures to strengthen its newly established Air Quality Cell (AQC) for better air quality management.
   The World Bank's total commitment for the 5 year project is $62.20 million.

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Holiday Report

Club Digital, a Privilege Membership Program from Transom Digital, the first of its kind in Bangladesh has been launched at a ceremony in Gulshan recently.
   The aim of Club Digital is to redefine lifestyle by offering additional benefits and exclusive privilege for its members, says a press release.
   The privilege includes: attractive discount on any purchases at Transcom Digital showroom, guaranteed cash back upon redemption of accumulated reward points, fast-track services at all Transcom Digital showrooms and more lifestyle offers to come.
   Members can avail services from more than 3,000 outlets across Bangladesh using the complimentary Transcom Digital - Standard Chartered co-branded VISA Prepaid Card.
   Mrs. Shalrnaz Rahman, Director, Transcom Ltd., formally inaugurated this Privilege Membership Program. Mr. Latifur Rahman, Chairman, Transcom Ltd., was present in the occasion as Special Guest.

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