While unveiling the World Bank report, the minister expressed disappointment saying that he has no pleasure in unveiling the report as it presents an issue that needs serious attention. There is no doubt that this is an important report.
Citing the Constitution, the minister said, “As per the Constitution, we are committed to ensuring a healthy and fit life to the people. But we have some issues including finance and efficiency. Both finance and efficiency are necessary to solve environmental problems.
Regarding cross-border flow of air, he said, “The polluted air of Punjab in India flows into Punjab of Pakistan. Similarly, polluted air flows from one country to another and there is no one to blame for it.
“For Bangladesh, addressing environmental risks is both a development and economic priority,” said Abdoulaye Seck, World Bank Country Director for Bhutan and Bangladesh. We have seen around the world that when economic growth comes at the expense of the environment, it is not sustainable. But it is possible to achieve clean and green growth without slow growth.”
