Dhaka, February 6, 2025: Experts stress the urgent need for smoke-free public spaces in Bangladesh’s urban areas to protect public health and promote a cleaner environment. Policymakers, development partners and representatives of tobacco control organizations came together today at the launch of a research project titled “Tobacco-Smoke Free Cities (TFC)” to prevent secondhand smoke (SHS) in Bangladesh.
The event was organized by ARK Foundation Bangladesh, a leading research organization, with support from the University of York, UK. The research aims to implement and assess the impact of tobacco-smoke-free policies in two key urban locations: Dhaka North City Corporation and Narsingdi.
Tobacco remains one of the biggest threats to global public health, causing over 8 million deaths in 2021, including 1.3 million deaths from secondhand smoke exposure. Women and children in low- and middle-income countries suffer the most from these health risks.
Although Bangladesh’s Tobacco Control Act (2005, amended in 2013) prohibits smoking in public places, enforcement remains a challenge. Experts stress the need for stricter implementation to protect urban populations from preventable health hazards.
The Tobacco-Smoke-Free Cities (TFC) research project aims to collaborate with local government authorities and communities in Dhaka North City Corporation and Narsingdi to create tobacco-smoke-free public spaces in compliance with the Tobacco Control Act.
This study will assess the impact of smoke-free policies on urban environments and public health by employing various research methods. The findings will provide data-driven insights to strengthen tobacco control measures, reduce secondhand smoke exposure, and promote a healthier living environment in urban Bangladesh.
During the event, health officials and policymakers called for stronger enforcement and government leadership to eliminate tobacco use in public spaces.
Dr. Mohammad Zillur Rahman, Civil Surgeon of Dhaka, stated:
“Non-communicable diseases are on the rise in urban areas. Without urgent tobacco control measures, it will be difficult to prevent these health crises.”
Md. Farhadur Reza, Program Officer at the National Tobacco Control Cell, emphasized:
“Government institutions must take the lead by ensuring all government buildings are 100% tobacco-free. This will set a precedent for a smoke-free environment nationwide.”
Dr. Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Health Officer, Dhaka North City Corporation, highlighted the city’s commitment, stating:
“Our city corporation is ready to take action. We urge collective cooperation to allocate resources for tobacco control measures.”
Experts also raised concerns about children being exposed to secondhand smoke in schools and public transport.
Prof. Morshed Bipul, Director of Primary Health Education, warned:
“Students in Dhaka’s 342 primary schools are at risk. We must work towards a completely tobacco-free environment for them.”
The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) called for mobile courts and stricter law enforcement to eliminate smoking in public transport.
Md. Hemayet Uddin, Deputy Director (Enforcement), BRTA, stressed:
“Strict enforcement in buses and train stations is essential. We have already seen success in making train stations smoke-free—this effort must expand nationwide.”
The Tobacco-Smoke-Free Cities (TFC) research project will evaluate the effectiveness of smoke-free policies in urban Bangladesh. Findings will provide data-driven insights to strengthen national tobacco control measures.
Professor Helen Elsey, Lead Researcher from the University of York, UK, stated:
“There is no alternative to tobacco control if we want to build stronger urban health systems. The success of this research will guide future policymaking and enforcement strategies.”
The event concluded with a strong call for collective action. Professor Rumana Huq, Executive Director of ARK Foundation, urged:
“Achieving a tobacco-smoke-free environment requires government commitment, public awareness, and strict enforcement. We urge all stakeholders to come together for a healthier Bangladesh.”
