Deploy cops at mango orchards to stop use of toxic chemicals

The High Court today directed the government to immediately deploy police at mango gardens in Rajshahi and other major harvesting areas to prevent use of toxic chemicals in mangoes.

The court also ordered the authorities concerned to monitor the godowns of mangoes and other fruits in Dhaka through surveillance teams so that harmful chemicals cannot be used in fruits.

The inspector general of police, director general of Rapid Action and Bangladesh Standard Testing Institute chairman have been asked to submit a report before the court after complying with the directives in 30 days.

The High Court bench of Justice FRM Nazmul Ahsan and Justice KM Kamrul Kader came up with the order following a petition filed by Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB).

During hearing the petition, HRPB’s lawyer Advocate Manzill Murshid told the court that following a writ petition, the High Court on February 29, 2012 had issued several directives on the government to stop use of hazardous chemicals in fruits and to take action against the people responsible for using the chemicals.

But some dishonest people are reportedly using hazardous chemicals in fruits particularly in mangoes during the harvesting seasons, he said.

Advocate Manzill prayed to the High Court to pass necessary order to stop use of chemicals in fruits.