Join the Fight Against Air and Noise Pollution: DoE Launches Initiative in Khulna

DoE Fights Pollution in Khulna: A Snapshot of Recent Actions

The Department of Environment (DoE) in Khulna has ramped up efforts to tackle air and environmental pollution. From January to April 2025, they launched 182 mobile court operations across ten districts, responding to directives from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

During this four-month initiative, the mobile courts handled 417 cases and collected fines exceeding Tk 3.1 crore. A significant part of this campaign targeted illegal brick kilns and coal-burning stoves, resulting in the destruction of 39 kilns and 45 stoves, with another 227 ordered to cease operations.

Seizing Pollutants

In a notable incident, officials confiscated six truckloads of battery recycling equipment from a factory accused of air pollution. The DoE also focused on banned polythene, conducting 39 operations against its production and sale. They seized 7,453 kg of polythene material and fined establishments a total of Tk 69.67 lakh.

Additionally, the DoE confiscated 296 hydraulic horns from vehicles during 48 drives, filing 164 cases and collecting fines of Tk 1.84 lakh.

Expert Insights

Md Sadiqul Islam, current director of the DoE in Khulna, emphasized that these anti-pollution operations will continue to protect health and the environment. He urged business owners to adhere to environmental regulations for a healthier community.

Mahfuzur Rahman Mukul, coordinator of the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers’ Association, highlighted that the High Court has mandated the destruction of all illegal brick kilns by 2025. He noted that some kilns operate near agricultural lands and the Sundarbans, violating regulations that are crucial for preserving natural habitats.

Advocate Babul Hawladar, from Khulna Nagorik Samaj, pointed out that about 60% of brick kilns are illegal. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts to enforce environmental laws, promote cleaner technologies, enhance public transportation, and raise community awareness.

Adding to this, Prof. Dr. Mujibur Rahman from Khulna University described the significant environmental risks posed by non-friendly industries and the use of polythene. He pointed out the importance of reducing construction waste on roads and creating more green spaces to alleviate persistent dust pollution.

Current Trends

As concerns about air quality rise, social media discourse around environmental issues is increasing. Public reactions often call for stricter measures and highlight the health impacts of pollution. Recent surveys indicate that a majority of residents in urban areas are concerned about air quality, underscoring the urgency of the DoE’s initiatives.

The ongoing drives by the DoE reflect a growing awareness and commitment to improving the environment in Khulna, with experts advocating for continued vigilance and innovative approaches to combat pollution.

For more in-depth insights on environmental policies, you can visit the Bangladesh Environment Department’s official site. Highlighting the importance of community involvement and adherence to environmental laws can pave the way for a cleaner, healthier future.

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