Smoke rises from chimneys at brick kilns in Savar’s Aminbazar area, polluting the air. The brick kilns around the capital contribute to air pollution which has serious health consequences. Dhaka regularly ranks among the cities with the worst air quality in the world. The photo was taken recently. Photo: Palash Khan

Buddhists lighting candles at the Basabo Buddha Mandir in the capital yesterday as part of celebration of the Buddha Purnima, the biggest religious festival of the Buddhist community. Buddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. Photo: Prabir Das

A battery-run rickshaw plies on the wrong side of the Dhaka-Chattogram highway, while another travels dangerously close to a bus, all under the watch of a policeman. Despite the prime minister’s recommendation to allow these vehicles on Dhaka streets, regulations clearly prohibit them from using highways. As this situation develops, it is crucial that regulations for these vehicles are formulated and enforced. This photo was taken yesterday. Photo: Palash Khan