The recently inaugurated Dasherkandi Sewage Treatment Plant near Aftabnagar is yet another significant step in the country's intentions towards tackling environmental pollution and improving the quality of water in Dhaka - and must be commended.
What is also commendable is the long-term vision - the plant has been built as part of a master plan taken up by Wasa to construct five additional treatment plants.
Bangladesh's dense population means the need for more efficient sewage treatment systems is more prevalent. Inadequate sanitation infrastructure has dire consequences for public health, leading to the spread of diseases and compromising the well-being of communities.
Waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis, thrive in these conditions, resulting in widespread illness and even death. Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly susceptible to these health hazards.
Moreover, inadequate sewage treatment systems contribute to the pollution of groundwater sources, which are essential for drinking and irrigation purposes. As a consequence, communities are exposed to hazardous contaminants, leading to long-term health issues. Efficient sewage treatment is thus crucial for mitigating these health risks and promoting the overall well-being of the population.
By adopting modern sewage treatment technologies in Dasherkandi Sewage Treatment Plant, Bangladesh signals its intention to reduce the levels of contamination in its water resources.
This investment in the sewage treatment infrastructure will only yield substantial returns in terms of improved public health and a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
The health and well-being of the people should be at the forefront of the nation's development agenda, and efficient sewage treatment is a vital component in achieving this goal.
