Cumilla: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo today announced a readiness to take legal action to secure compensation for farmers affected by waste disposal from the Cumilla Export Processing Zone (EPZ) into local canals. Speaking at a discussion at Bijoypur Mohila College with farmers impacted by the waste issue, Mintoo emphasized the necessity of addressing the environmental harm caused by the EPZ's waste discharge.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister expressed his concern over the situation, stating that the condition of the Gungaijuri canal was distressing. Mintoo assured the farmers that he would engage with the EPZ authorities within the week to discuss the matter. He stressed that the importance of EPZs should not come at the cost of environmental health, highlighting the equal importance of both industry and a clean environment.
The minister also promised measures to stop the pollution of the canal, ensuring the farmers that their grievances would be addressed. He was accompanied by Cumilla-6 MP Monirul Haque Chowdhury, along with local leaders and workers from the BNP and its associate bodies.