Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Sept 7, 2026 (BSS) - Social watchdogs and development activists at a human chain here today unequivocally urged the relevant authorities to take measures to reduce the country’s growing dependence on fossil fuels to restore clean air.

They said the use of fossil fuel-free energy must be increased significantly to achieve pollution-free air.

Just Energy Transition Bangladesh (JETnet BD) and Poriborton jointly organized the event in the Panchabati area of Rajshahi, demanding initiatives to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and restore clean air, marking the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.

Women’s rights activists, development workers, indigenous leaders and students participated in the programme.

Speakers included Sabitri Hemrom, Women’s Affairs Secretary of the Jatiya Adivasi Parishad; development worker Hasibul Hasan; youth rights activist Rony Roy; agricultural entrepreneur Liakat Ali; and Poriborton Director Rashed Ripon.

The speakers said air pollution must be reduced by increasing the use of renewable energy.

Sabitri Hemrom said, “We need electricity, but we don't want polluted air in return. We want investment in renewable energy. We want 10,000 megawatts of solar power. We want a Bangladesh with clean air.”