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.
