Dhaka, Oct. 15 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged people from all walks of life to come forward to protect the environment and forests, calling Dhaka's persistent air pollution a matter of shame for the country.

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

The Prime Minister urged government officials to take initiatives beyond their assigned duties to protect the environment and forests.

The meeting, held at the ministry's conference room, decided to identify and preserve the country's mother trees...