10 Most Clean Cities in Bangladesh: How to Enjoy Pollution-Free

Bangladesh is a country that faces many challenges in terms of pollution and environmental degradation. Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to increased waste generation, water-logging, air pollution and loss of wetlands in many cities. However, there are also some cities that are making efforts to improve their cleanliness and resilience.

Top 10 Clean Cities in Bangladesh: Rank Wise

Here are the top 10 clean cities in Bangladesh, based on their air quality index (AQI), waste management, green spaces and other factors.

1. Sylhet

Sylhet is a city in the northeastern region of Bangladesh, known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity. It has a population of about 500,000 people and a moderate AQI of 51. Sylhet has many attractions that showcase its clean and green environment, such as the Jaflong waterfall, the Ratargul swamp forest, the Malnicherra tea garden and the Sylhet Botanical Garden. The city also has a solid waste management system that collects and disposes of about 350 tons of waste per day.

2. Khulna

Khulna is a city in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 1.4 million people and a moderate AQI of 58. Khulna is the gateway to the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has taken steps to protect its environment and biodiversity, such as banning plastic bags, promoting renewable energy sources, planting trees and creating parks and gardens. Khulna also has a waste management system that handles about 450 tons of waste per day.

3. Rajshahi

Rajshahi is a city in the northwestern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 900,000 people and a moderate AQI of 61. Rajshahi is situated on the bank of the Padma river and has a rich history and culture. The city has been recognized as one of the cleanest cities in Asia by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and has received several awards for its environmental initiatives. Rajshahi has implemented various projects to improve its air quality, water supply, sanitation, drainage and waste management.

4. Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar is a city in the southeastern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 250,000 people and an AQI of 64, which is close to moderate. Cox’s Bazar is famous for its long sandy beach, which is the longest natural sea beach in the world. The city attracts millions of tourists every year and has developed its tourism infrastructure and facilities accordingly. Cox’s Bazar has also taken measures to preserve its natural resources and beauty, such as banning plastic bottles, installing solar panels, creating marine sanctuaries and recycling waste.

5. Rangpur

Rangpur is a city in the northern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 400,000 people and an AQI of 67, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Rangpur is known for its agricultural production and trade, especially of rice, jute and sugarcane. The city has a number of historical and cultural sites, such as the Tajhat Palace, the Carmichael College and the Rangpur Zoo. Rangpur has improved its urban governance and planning, as well as its water supply and sanitation services.

6. Chittagong

Chittagong is a city in the southeastern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 6.5 million people and an AQI of 71, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Chittagong is the second-largest city and the main seaport of Bangladesh. It is also a major commercial and industrial hub, with sectors such as shipbuilding, steel, textiles and chemicals. Chittagong has faced many challenges due to its rapid growth and development, such as traffic congestion, air pollution, water scarcity and slum proliferation. However, the city has also undertaken some initiatives to improve its environment and livability, such as expanding public transport, building flyovers and underpasses, constructing water treatment plants, establishing green belts and launching awareness campaigns.

7. Mymensingh

Mymensingh is a city in the central region of Bangladesh and beautiful city, with a population of about 400,000 people and an AQI of 71, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Mymensingh is located on the Brahmaputra river and has a strong educational and cultural heritage. The city is home to several institutions of higher learning, such as the Bangladesh Agricultural University, the Mymensingh Medical College and the Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University. The city also has a number of historical and religious sites, such as the Shoshi Lodge, the Alexander Castle, the Boro Kuthi and the Gouripur House. Mymensingh has improved its urban governance and planning, as well as its water supply and sanitation services.

8. Barisal

Barisal is a city in the southern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 500,000 people and an AQI of 71, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Barisal is situated on the Kirtankhola river and is known as the “Venice of Bengal” for its numerous canals and waterways. The city is also famous for its production of rice, betel leaf, coconut, guava and fish. Barisal has a number of tourist attractions, such as the Durga Sagar lake, the Oxford Mission Church, the Bell’s Park and the Sher-e-Bangla Museum. Barisal has also implemented some projects to enhance its urban environment and resilience, such as installing solar street lights, constructing cyclone shelters, creating community gardens and promoting waste segregation.

9. Bogra

Bogra is a city in the northern region of Bangladesh, with a population of about 850,000 people and an AQI of 75, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Bogra is an important commercial and industrial center, with sectors such as ceramics, textiles, food processing and pharmaceuticals. The city is also rich in archaeological and historical sites, such as the Mahasthangarh fort, the Behula Lakshindar Basar Ghar, the Gokul Medh temple and the Nawab Palace. Bogra has improved its urban infrastructure and services, such as roads, bridges, drainage systems, solid waste management and public transport.

10. Dhaka

Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh, with a population of about 22 million people and an AQI of 156, which is unhealthy. Dhaka is one of the most densely populated and fastest growing cities in the world, with a vibrant economy, culture and society. The city has many landmarks and attractions, such as the Lalbagh Fort, the Ahsan Manzil, the National Parliament House, the Liberation War Museum and the Dhaka Zoo. Dhaka also faces many challenges due to its rapid urbanization and industrialization, such as traffic congestion, air pollution, water scarcity and slum proliferation. However, the city has also undertaken some initiatives to improve its environment and livability, such as expanding public transport, building flyovers and underpasses, constructing water treatment plants, establishing green belts and launching awareness campaigns.

Conclusion

These are the top 10 clean cities in Bangladesh that are making efforts to improve their air quality index (AQI), waste management, green spaces and other factors. However, there is still room for improvement and more action is needed to address the pollution and environmental degradation issues that affect many cities in Bangladesh. By adopting best practices and innovative solutions, Bangladesh can achieve clean and resilient growth for its urban areas and its people.