Rising Heat Cost Bangladesh $1.8 Billion in 2024

Heat mirage is visible on an expressway as vehicles move during a countrywide heat wave in Dhaka, Bangladesh, April 21, 2024.

Rising temperatures are taking a heavy toll on Bangladesh, with heat-related illnesses and productivity losses costing the economy up to $1.78 billion—about 0.4% of GDP—in 2024, according to a World Bank report released Tuesday.

The study shows that since 1980, the country’s maximum temperature has risen by 1.1°C, while the “feels like” temperature has surged by 4.5°C.

The rising heat has contributed to increased cases of diarrhea, respiratory problems, fatigue, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, with women and older people being particularly vulnerable.

Dhaka has emerged as one of the world’s most heat-stressed cities, with its heat index climbing 65% faster than the national average. In 2024 alone, heat-related physical and mental health conditions led to the loss of 25 million workdays nationwide.

“Extreme heat is not just a seasonal inconvenience. It affects health, productivity, and the country’s prosperity,” said Jean Pesme, World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.

The report urges urgent measures to strengthen health systems, expand urban green spaces, and improve data collection. It also calls for international financing to help Bangladesh adapt to escalating climate risks, noting that lessons can be drawn from countries like Singapore.