The severe heatwave in May 2026 again reminds us that Dhaka city is gradually becoming an uninhabitable urban heat island.
Because of unplanned concrete buildings, lack of vegetation, and excessive traffic, Dhaka’s temperature is 4 to 5 degrees Celsius higher than the surrounding rural areas. To tackle this climate crisis, in 2026 the two city corporations of Dhaka have stepped up an urban afforestation project using the Japanese Miyawaki method.
Urban heat island and public health risks: According to scientists, the city’s high‑rise buildings absorb heat from the sun during the day and release it into the air at night. As a result, the city cannot cool down even after sunset.
This excess heat has led to reduced productivity, increased heat strokes, and a rise in illnesses such as pneumonia among children. Only 8% of Dhaka’s area is covered by greenery, whereas an ideal city requires at least 25% green cover.
Miyawaki method: a technique for creating dense forests in small spaces: Instead of ordinary tree planting, the 2026 afforestation program is using the Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki.
Rapid growth: This method plants native species very close together, enabling growth up to ten times faster and resulting in forests thirty times denser than conventional plantations.
Carbon sequestration: These mini‑forests absorb far more carbon dioxide than ordinary gardens and also reduce noise pollution.
Implementation areas: Pilot projects in Kallyanpur, Diabari, and the Rayer Bazar embankment areas of Dhaka have already begun to show positive results.
To keep Dhaka livable for future generations, building more high‑rises alone is not enough. It is now time to make modern, eco‑friendly afforestation methods like the Miyawaki model mandatory in every ward and residential area.
