Khulna: The Department of Environment (DoE) in Khulna has conducted an extensive crackdown on air and environmental pollution, executing 182 mobile court operations across 10 districts within the division from January 1 to April 30, 2025. This initiative was undertaken in response to directives from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the four-month campaign led to the filing of 417 cases and the collection of over Taka 3.10 crore in fines. The operations resulted in the destruction of 39 illegal brick kilns and 45 coal-burning stoves, with 227 more ordered to cease operations. Officials stated that these efforts would persist until pollution levels in the region are reduced to a manageable degree.
During the drive, authorities seized six truckloads of battery recycling equipment from one factory, which was subsequently charged with air pollution violations. Additionally, 39 mobile court operations targeted the production and sale of banned polythene, leading to 61 cases and the seizure of 7,452.9 kilograms of the material. Actions were taken against 39 establishments, collecting over Taka 69.67 lakh in fines.
The campaign also addressed noise pollution, with 296 hydraulic horns seized in 48 operations. A total of 164 cases were filed against vehicles, resulting in fines exceeding Taka 1.84 lakh.
Md Sadiqul Islam, Director (Current Charge) of DoE in Khulna Division, emphasized the department's commitment to ongoing anti-pollution efforts to safeguard the environment and public health. Business owners have been warned to adhere to environmental regulations to maintain a healthy environment.
Mahfuzur Rahman Mukul, Khulna coordinator of Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers' Association (BELA), highlighted the High Court's mandate for all illegal brick kilns to be dismantled by 2025. He noted that some owners have established kilns on agricultural lands and near the Sundarbans, raising concerns about environmental damage.
Advocate Babul Hawladar, Member Secretary of Khulna Nagorik Samaj, called for coordinated efforts to combat pollution, including stricter law enforcement, promotion of cleaner technologies, enhanced public transportation, and increased community awareness.
Prof. Dr. Md Mujibur Rahman, head of the Environment and Science Discipline at Khulna University, pointed out the detrimental impact of non-environmentally friendly industries and the hazards posed by polythene use. He urged for the cessation of practices that contribute to dust pollution and environmental degradation.