The main speaker at a discussion event held today at DU's central playground was Environmental Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Feb 28, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said sustainable development cannot be achieved without safeguarding the environment by controlling air, water, soil, and noise pollution.

"Pioritizing infrastructure projects such as metro rail, high-speed trains, and flyovers without considering environmental impacts will create a severe crisis for future generations," she said. 

Rizwana made these remarks while addressing a discussion arranged, marking the 75th founding anniversary of Dhaka University's Department of Geography and Environment at the Central Playground of the university.

The adviser also raised the question of why life in Dhaka is so challenging, asking why people cannot find peace to sit and think.

Mentioning that noise and air pollution, river contamination, and food adulteration have reached alarming levels, the adviser said these problems are widely recognized, but meaningful action is rarely taken.

"Now is the time for collective efforts to make our country pollution-free," she added. 

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan and Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences Professor Dr. Kazi Matin Uddin Ahmed addressed the event as special guests.

With Professor Dr. Md. Shahidul Islam, Chair of the Department of Geography and Environment, in the chair, the event was addressed, among others, by Manowar Hossain Khan, Member Secretary of the 75th Anniversary Celebration Committee.

Sarwar Alam, a former student of the department, moderated the programme.

Mentioning a personal correlation between her work and the department's academic focus, Rizwana said, "We live in an environment where we are constantly disturbed by the blaring sound of loudspeakers. We need to create a space where noise pollution remains within acceptable limits."

She praised the department for banning polythene and single-use plastics on its premises and urged people to take personal initiatives to reduce plastic pollution.

"A civilized and sustainable society cannot be built without a sense of responsibility towards the environment," she added.

Addressing students, she expressed hope that graduates from the department would grow into responsible administrators, corporate leaders, and professionals with a strong commitment to environmental sensitivity.

“If you have any suggestions on how to assist the Ministry of Environment and the Department of Environment, please share them with me. Your input will help us take more effective measures,” she said.

"We aim to build a future where environment-friendly development is prioritized, and I trust that the Department of Geography and Environment will play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens."

Present and former teachers, students of the department, their family members, environmentalists, among others, were present at the function.