Bangladesh Faces Economic and Health Crisis from Rising Temperatures

A new World Bank report has issued a stark warning about the escalating impact of heatwaves in Bangladesh, revealing that rising temperatures are now a major threat to public health and economic productivity.

Titled An Unsustainable Life: The Impact of Heat on Health and the Economy of Bangladesh, the report shows that since 1980, the country’s maximum temperature has increased by 1.1°C, while the “feels like” temperature has surged by 4.5°C. Dhaka’s heat index is now 65% higher than the national average.

The consequences are severe: heat-related illnesses such as diarrhea, respiratory infections, and fatigue have doubled in summer months. Mental health issues particularly depression and anxiety are also on the rise, especially among women and older adults. In 2024 alone, heat-related conditions caused the loss of 250 million workdays, costing the economy an estimated $1.78 billion, or 0.4% of GDP.

World Bank officials urged Bangladesh to adopt cross-sectoral climate adaptation strategies, citing successful models in countries like Singapore. “Extreme heat is not just a seasonal inconvenience it’s a long-term threat to prosperity,” said Jean Pesme, the Bank’s Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.

The report calls for urgent investment in heat-resilient infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and targeted healthcare interventions.