With people panting amid the persisting heatwaves, there is a greater need for supportive programmes rather than just offering advice, said public health expert and Adviser to the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control And Research (IEDCR) Mohammad Mushtuq Husain.
During an interview with our Planning Editor Ashraful Islam, Dr Mushtuq emphasised that common people are often compelled to work outdoors for their livelihoods, enduring the scorching heat. To address their needs, authorities should prioritise providing essentials such as potable water, saline, food items like puffed rice and biscuits, shade, and primary medical care.
Dr Mushtuq said the police boxes can be utilised as centers for such aid distribution programme.
Regarding the private sector, he stressed the responsibility of business owners to ensure similar support for their workers. "If individual efforts fall short, collaborative initiatives among multiple owners can be explored to ensure access to water and shade," he said.
Dr Mushtuq highlighted the importance of food assistance alongside water, as heatwaves can lead not only to dehydration but also to malnutrition.
He said, "While those financially stable may benefit from advice by staying indoors, there is no substitute for assistance programmes for the working-class people who must earn a living to support their families."
Expressing concern over heat-related deaths despite awareness campaigns, Dr Mushtuq said it is obvious that the working class people have no option but to come out of their homes. He urged capable members of society to step up and assist those in need.
Addressing the pollution in Dhaka city, Dr Mushtuq proposed watering plants and soil along roads in the morning to promote oxygen release. He cautioned that watering should occur in the absence of direct sunlight to prevent evaporation.
Attributing the ongoing heatwave to the direct impact of climate change, he underscored the urgent need for action, stating, "This heatwave unequivocally demonstrates the severity of climate change."
Regarding health risks associated with heatwaves, Dr Mushtuq warned of increased respiratory and waterborne diseases, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
He clarified that while heatwaves may exacerbate existing health issues, there is no direct link between climate change and infectious diseases like Covid-19.
Asked about the priority of public health in the climate fund, he said women and children are the most vulnerable to climate change, but the assistance does not reach the affected community. Local institutions can play a significant role in this regard.
In response to inquiries regarding the absence of public health-related programmes in government projects under public-private partnership (PPP), Dr Mushtuq said, "The government appears to lack prioritiSation of public health. The greater our investment in the education and healthcare sectors, the higher the proportionate returns. With universal healthcare still beyond reach, individuals are compelled to sell their land to cover medical expenses."
He said although money is being spent from people's pockets, it ultimately represents a squandering of national assets. Productivity would multiply if efforts were directed towards disease prevention. Ensuring public health would enable individuals to contribute more to the national income.
