Bangladesh, Oct. 16 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called Dhaka's persistent air pollution a "matter of shame" for the country, urging people from all walks of life to take responsibility for protecting the environment and forests.

Speaking at a meeting to review the progress and implementation of activities of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, he stressed the need for collective efforts and greater public awareness to build a liveable Bangladesh for future generations.

"This is a matter of shame for the country. Everyone must take responsibility from their respective positions to change the situation," he said, expressing concern that Dhaka had ranked first or second among the world's most polluted ...