DHAKA: Bangladesh unveiled a ‘Death Clock’ in its capital to raise awareness about smoking-related deaths in a country which ranks among the world's highest in tobacco consumption.

Around 57,000 people die annually from tobacco-related diseases in Bangladesh, on average 156 people per day, said Sayed Badrul Karim from the Progga NGO, which is supported by the Washington-based Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK).

“The Death Clock will be on until the next parliament session which will be in session on Jan 27,” said Taifur Rahman, Advocacy and Media Coordinator in Bangladesh of CTFK.

The aim was to attract the attention of policymakers and win public support. It was unveiled by Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu on Saturday.

An estimated 58 per cent of men and 29 per cent of women use some form of tobacco in Bangladesh. The country is considering introducing a law to restrict the use of tobacco and increasing taxes on tobacco products.—Reuters