Dhaka losing wetlands to developers

Summary

In Dhaka, Bangladesh, the encroachment of wetlands for urban development has disrupted the city's ecological balance. Once a network of canals and wetlands, the area now faces the loss of vital habitats and increased vulnerability to flooding. Powerful entities, often with government ties, have illegally filled these lands, leading to a diminished water transport system and exacerbating air pollution. Despite legal protections on paper, enforcement is lacking, and environmentalists are fighting to restore these critical ecosystems for the city's survival.

Takeaways

• 🌊 Canals and tributaries are crucial for Dhaka, providing transport and shipping access, and the Wetlands have historically helped maintain the city's livability.
• 🏗️ Urban expansion has led to the illegal draining and filling of Wetlands, resulting in the loss of natural habitats and the construction of buildings.
• 🏙️ Powerful individuals with government connections are involved in the encroachment and development of these Wetlands.
• 🐟 The loss of Wetlands has negatively impacted the local ecosystem, including the disappearance of fish and other wildlife.
• 🚣‍♂️ The destruction of canals has removed a vital transportation system, increasing difficulties for the city's over 22 million inhabitants.
• 🌧️ The filling of Wetlands exacerbates flooding issues, as there is less capacity to absorb water from even moderate rainfall.
• 🌡️ The environmental changes have also affected air quality and temperature, impacting the city's climate.
• 📜 Despite laws meant to protect the Wetlands, enforcement is lacking, allowing for continued degradation.
• ⚖️ There is an ongoing legal battle to restore and recover the canals and Wetlands.
• 🌿 Environmentalists and residents emphasize the urgent need to save the Wetlands for the survival of the city.

Q & A

What role do the canals and tributaries play in Dhaka, Bangladesh?

The canals and tributaries in Dhaka provide transport and shipping access, and the surrounding wetlands help maintain the city's livability.

How has the landscape of Dhaka changed over the past 35 years?

Over the past 35 years, large areas of wetlands have been drained and filled for construction, leading to the disappearance of many canals and the urbanization of what was once a rich fish habitat.

What is the impact of wetland destruction on the local population?

The destruction of wetlands has removed a vital commuter system, making it harder for the city's over 22 million people to move around.

Who is responsible for the illegal filling of wetlands in Dhaka?

Powerful individuals with connections to the government are responsible for the illegal filling of wetlands, despite environmental concerns.

What steps has the Bangladeshi government taken to protect Dhaka's rivers?

In 1999, the Bangladeshi government declared Dhaka's four rivers as ecologically critical areas, but critics argue that the protection is only on paper.

How many canals used to flow through Dhaka, and how many still function?

Approximately 56 canals used to flow through Dhaka, but many have disappeared, and only 12 still function.

What are the consequences of canal destruction for Dhaka's climate?

The destruction of canals has led to increased flooding, as water from even moderate rain has nowhere to go due to the filling of surrounding wetlands.

What is the impact of wetland destruction on Dhaka's air pollution and temperature?

The destruction of wetlands has impacted the air pollution and temperature of the city, with little attention from policymakers to protect these areas.

Are there any laws in place to protect the wetlands around Dhaka?

Yes, several laws exist to protect the wetlands around Dhaka, but they are not being properly enforced.

Why is it crucial to save the wetlands for Dhaka's survival?

The wetlands must be saved to maintain the city's climate, prevent flooding, and support the livelihood of its residents, ensuring the city's survival.

What legal battles are being fought to restore the canals in Dhaka?

There are ongoing legal battles to restore and recover the canals that have been covered by roads and built upon by townships.