Khulna Faces Environmental and Economic Challenges as New Initiatives Emerge
Khulna, the third-largest city in Bangladesh, is grappling with a complex web of environmental and economic pressures as local authorities and community groups launch new initiatives to address longstanding issues. Located in the southwestern part of the country, near the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Khulna serves as a vital industrial and port hub, but its residents and businesses are increasingly affected by climate change, pollution, and infrastructure gaps.
Recent reports from the Khulna City Corporation indicate that rising salinity in groundwater sources has become a critical concern. The problem, exacerbated by sea-level rise and upstream water diversion, threatens both drinking water supplies and agricultural productivity in surrounding areas. Local officials have announced a new project to install reverse osmosis plants in several wards, aiming to provide clean water to an estimated 200,000 residents by the end of 2025. However, funding constraints and maintenance challenges remain significant hurdles.
On the economic front, Khulna’s shrimp processing industry, a major employer, is facing difficulties due to global market fluctuations and stricter international quality standards. The Bangladesh Shrimp and Fish Foundation reported a 15% decline in exports from Khulna region in the last fiscal year, citing competition from other shrimp-producing nations and logistical bottlenecks at Mongla Port. In response, the government has pledged to upgrade port facilities and streamline customs procedures, though business leaders argue that more immediate support is needed to prevent job losses.
Environmental degradation is also taking a toll. The Rupsha River, which flows through the city, has seen increased pollution from industrial effluents and untreated sewage. A recent study by the Khulna University of Engineering and Technology found dangerously high levels of heavy metals in water samples near industrial zones. Activists have called for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, while the Department of Environment has promised to conduct regular inspections starting next month.
Amid these challenges, there are signs of grassroots resilience. A community-led initiative called “Green Khulna” has been planting mangrove saplings along riverbanks to combat erosion and improve biodiversity. The project, supported by local universities and international NGOs, has already restored over 10 kilometers of shoreline. Organizers hope to expand the effort to other parts of the city, emphasizing the importance of nature-based solutions in urban planning.
On the cultural front, Khulna’s annual Sundarbans Festival, scheduled for next week, is expected to draw thousands of visitors. The event will feature traditional music, art exhibitions, and discussions on conservation, highlighting the region’s rich heritage and its connection to the world’s largest mangrove forest. Organizers say the festival aims to boost local tourism and raise awareness about environmental protection.
International attention on Khulna has grown as climate change impacts become more pronounced. The city is part of the global “100 Resilient Cities” network, which provides technical support for urban adaptation strategies. Experts from the World Bank and United Nations Development Programme are currently conducting assessments to help Khulna develop a comprehensive climate action plan, expected to be unveiled later this year.
Despite these efforts, residents express mixed feelings. Rickshaw puller Abdul Karim, a longtime Khulna dweller, said in a local interview that while he sees some improvements, the daily struggle for clean water and stable income remains acute. “We hear about big projects, but life here is still hard,” he noted. Such voices underscore the gap between policy ambitions and on-the-ground realities.
As Khulna navigates these multifaceted issues, its experience offers lessons for other rapidly urbanizing regions in Bangladesh and beyond. The city’s ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability will be closely watched, both nationally and internationally.