Traditional brick kilns to be closed down

Environment, Forest and Climate Change minister Md Shahab Uddin yesterday said traditional brick kilns that are currently operating across the country will be shut down, owing to environmental hazards.

He said modern technology should replace existing brick kilns.

Shahab Uddin said this to reporters while visiting Department of Environment’s (DoE) Chattogram Lab at Khulshi, for the first time after assuming office.

“We will close down traditional brick kilns as it is harming the environment badly. For brick kilns we will formulate new guidelines so that they can be operated in an environment-friendly way,” the minister said.

He ordered DoE officials to take stern action against the kilns that pollute the environment by releasing black smoke.

“Only filing cases against them won’t work. We have to water down the kilns if necessary,” he said.

Shahab Uddin asked officials to visit the factories on a regular basis to make sure they are not polluting rivers and water bodies.

He also emphasised on conserving hills from the greed of influentials.

Deputy minister Habibun Nahar and secretary Abdullah Al Mohsin Chowdhury of the ministry were also present.