Bangladesh is currently facing a record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. The rise in temperature has been observed in various regions, including the capital city, Dhaka.
The heatwave that the country is currently experiencing has broken all previous records, with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. According to the Meteorological Department, the heatwave started at a scorching 36 degrees Celsius and has now soared to nearly 43 degrees in certain regions. This is a significant increase compared to the historical temperature data. For instance, in 1960, the capital city, Dhaka, recorded its highest temperature of 42.3 degrees Celsius, and in 1965, it reached 42 degrees.
Prof. Dr. M. Golam Sarowar, Head of the Department of Entomology, National Institute of Preventive and Social Medicine (NIPSM), told Channel i Online: No matter how we say it, humans are the main culprits in environmental degradation. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, an ideal city is one where 25 percent of the construction or trees exist.
The rise in temperature is not limited to Dhaka alone. Both city corporations, Dhaka North and Dhaka South, have observed an increase in temperature. From 2017 to 2024, Dhaka North has experienced a rise of approximately 4 degrees while Dhaka South has seen a 3.04 degrees Celsius increase. This indicates that the heatwave is affecting various parts of the country.
The Centre for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS) has been monitoring temperature changes in specific areas in Dhaka, such as Motijheel, Gulistan, and Dhanmondi. Over the past seven years, these areas have witnessed significant temperature increases. Among them, Mohakhali has experienced the highest rise in temperature, reaching nearly 7 degrees Celsius. This alarming increase in temperature highlights the severity of the heatwave and its impact on local communities.
The consequences of such extreme heat are far-reaching. It poses a threat to public health, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses and even fatalities. Additionally, the heatwave can have detrimental effects on agriculture, causing crop loss and food shortages. It also puts a strain on energy resources, as the demand for cooling systems and electricity surges during such extreme weather conditions.
Efforts to mitigate the effects of the heatwave are crucial. The government and relevant authorities should prioritize implementing measures to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This includes promoting renewable energy sources, improving urban planning to create more green spaces and raising awareness about the importance of energy conservation and sustainable practices.
Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumdar, Dean of the Faculty of Science at Stamford University, and Chairman of the Department of Environmental Science, shared with Channel i Online: To control the rising temperature in the capital, the first step is to plant trees in every vacant space in the city. Rooftop gardening has to spread across the city.
