Environmental impact assessment due to the urbanization of Dhaka-Narayanganj-Demra (DND) project area

Abstract

The Dhaka-Narayanganj-Demra (DND) project is located in the vicinity of Dhaka City in its southeast part, which was a Flood Control Drainage and Irrigation (FCDI) project and completed in late sixties. The area is under increasing pressure of urbanization. As a result instead of agriculture promotion the area which is about 56.8 square miles now converted into an urban area. To identify the impact due to urbanization in DND project area, socio-economic survey was carried out in DND(N) area since the urbanization took place mainly in the North-west part of DND area. Water samples collected from various places and subsequently laboratory test program was undertaken to check the important parameters, which are pH, BOD, COD, Alkalinity, Turbidity, Faecal Coliform, Color and Nitrate value. It has been found that the concentration of these parameters occasionally exceeded the respective permissible values. Considering urban point of view the EIA parameters were chosen and positive and negative impact were considered accordingly. The methodology used for accomplishing EIA due to the urbanization of DND project area is Environmental Evaluation System (EES). Overall environment carry positive values of environmental impacts units (EIUs). A mitigation plan and environmental management plan are incorporated in the report. The zone is likely to be one of the fastest growing over next twenty years and unless rapid action is taken most development will take place in a completely unplanned and haphazard manner. In the study it is observed that the surface water quality in the area of DND deteriorated very much due to the urbanization. As a result of water pollution fisheries production hampered a lot. Though the area was aimed for the improvement of agriculture promotion but in fact the agriculture land reduced due to the urbanization. In the study it is also observed that the drainage and sanitation condition of the area is very poor. Matuail solid waste dumping station is questionable and the location should be changed to some other suitable place. Establishment of an environmental monitoring system for surface and underground water is needed in DND project area. In the study positive impacts also observed like industry, landscape, market and medical facility, etc.