Savar Declared a Degraded Airshed to Combat PollutionCEFR B1
6 Sept 2025
Adapted from Rezwan, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Nur Alamin, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
Recently, Bangladesh's Department of Environment designated Savar Upazila as a "degraded airshed" due to alarming air pollution levels primarily caused by brick kilns. This action reflects the government's acknowledgment of the severe environmental and health impacts affecting the local population and the nearby megacity of Dhaka.
Data reveal that Savar's air quality is significantly worse than national standards. In response, starting in September 2025, there will be a ban on brick burning in most kilns, as well as open burning of solid waste. New industries that can pollute the air will require environmental permits before their establishment.
A community leader has expressed optimism about these initiatives, emphasizing the urgent need for effective measures to combat pollution and restore the area's natural beauty. Many believe that coordinated efforts across Bangladesh will be necessary to truly improve air quality and protect future generations.
However, Savar's pollution problems reflect broader challenges throughout Bangladesh, which is grappling with critical air quality issues that have real consequences for public health and life expectancy.
Difficult words
- pollution — Harmful substances in the environment.pollute
- environment — The natural world around us.environmental
- quality — The standard of something, how good it is.
- ban — To officially stop something from happening.
- community — A group of people living in the same area.
- acknowledgment — Recognition of something being true.
- health — The state of being free from illness.
- initiatives — New plans or actions to solve problems.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What can communities do to improve air quality?
- Why is it important to protect future generations from pollution?
- How can governments raise awareness about environmental issues?
- What additional measures could be taken to combat pollution in cities?
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