Prime Minister Tareq Rahman called for strict and coordinated measures to prevent river pollution at a meeting in Dhaka on 6 August.
He said effective implementation must accompany any action plan and warned that inaction would leave future generations to bear the consequences.
The meeting, titled on improving the Buriganga River’s water and environment, examined pollution in the Buriganga and other rivers surrounding the capital.
Rahman directed authorities to rapidly formulate a coordinated plan and take effective steps to implement it.
Discussions covered the environmental condition, pollution sources, challenges and long-term solutions for the Buriganga, Turag, Balu and Shitalakkhya rivers, as well as other nearby waterways.
Participants identified untreated industrial discharge, inadequate sewerage and drainage, reduced canal navigability, and weak solid-waste management as major sources of pollution.
The meeting emphasized ensuring the effective operation of effluent treatment plants at industries, improving canals and drainage, and conducting regular drives against polluters.
It also stressed stronger enforcement of environmental laws, closer coordination among public agencies, public awareness and citizen participation.
Rahman instructed officials to involve environmental groups, voluntary organisations, educational institutions and local residents in the effort.
The meeting decided to establish an inter-agency coordination committee under the Prime Minister’s Office to coordinate the work and submit periodic progress reviews.