Analysis of Pollution In The River Buriganga, Its Impact, And Policy Options For Improving Water Quality

Abstract

Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world in terms of climate change, environmental degradation, pollution and widespread lack of awareness and policies. Although Dhaka is blessed with four rivers, the governments in the last fifty years have failed to take advantage of such blessings. The main river of these four is River Buriganga which is closely related to the development from the Mughals' era. Buriganga has remained a key source of drinking water, fishing and transport for a long time. However, in the past few decades, rapid and unplanned urbanisations, illegal activities, land grabbing and poor public awareness have caused immense damage to the river and are close to being dead. Considering its importance, the current government has initiated various projects to revive the RiverBuriganga and bring back its past glory to make is a commercial and social hub. This research aims to analyse the socioeconomic,
environmental, and ecological impact of the pollution of the RiverBuriganga. To address this aim, research was undertaken to analyse the physical condition of the river, including measurements of various water quality indicators. The research also explored, through a survey of members of the public, their perceptions of the level of pollution and the impact of pollution on their lives. Based on this analysis, recommendations are made to the government of Bangladesh about ways to improve the current situation. To analyse the water quality, water samples were collected from various areas in the southern part of the city, which is densely populated and the pollution level is visible. The researcher has made several field visits to identify the living conditions, types and sources of pollution. The water quality analysis confirmed significant pollution levels from effluents and heavy metals. The survey was conducted on 250 participants. The data was analysed using -square and regression analysis to test specific hypotheses. It was established that there is a positive correlation between improving the conditions and creating opportunities for livelihood for the public. The researcher has made specific recommendations based on the overall findings that the government needs to take strict steps to implement policies related to reducing pollution of the river Buriganga, increasing general awareness, finding ways to stop the pollution at its root, and most importantly, force the industries to implement waste treatment plants to stop duping waste water in the river. The researcher concluded that it is still possible to revive the river Buriganga and make is a centre of broader trade, commerce and recreational activities.

Date of Award	2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Aberystwyth University
Supervisor	Michael Christie (Supervisor) & Kyriaki Remoundou (Supervisor)