Violating the limit and conditions set by the Department of Environment (DoE), a private power plant in Chattogram has been producing 75 megawatts of unauthorised electricity polluting the air.

An inspection by the DoE Chattogram (region) in October found that the plant owned by Abul Khair Group was producing 95 megawatts with an out-of-order air treatment plant (ATP).

Abul Khair Steel and Power Ltd at Madambibir Hat in Sitakunda had obtained clearance from the DoE in 2010 for generating 25MW to be used for the group’s steel factory.

As per the Environment Conservation Rules 1997, power plants fall under the red category, which means power production can seriously harm the surrounding environment if mitigation measures are not taken.

Thus, the DoE clearance was issued with 21 conditions which required the plant not to pollute the air, soil and water, and keep its ATP functional and to take permission before increasing production.

Analysis of the air around the plant at the DoE Chattogram lab revealed that in some places the pollutant Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) was 460 microgram per cubic metre, much higher than the national standard of 200, said Muktadir Hasan, assistant director of the DoE Chattogram (region).

Suspended Particulate Matter includes pollen, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets hazardous to humans. 

Based on the findings, the DoE slapped the plant with Tk 5 lakh fine on December 18, Muktadir added.  

Sensing imminent punitive action, the plant authorities on November 20 sought clearance for additional power production from the DoE, a little under a month before it was fined.

Jahirul Islam, senior officer and in-charge of logistic unit of Abul Khair Steel and Power Ltd, asked the DoE to allow it to increase the power generation limit. 

Jahirul declined to comment on the matter when this correspondent approached him. 

Imrul Kader Bhuiyan, senior administration officer of the group, told The Daily Star over phone that they obtained the permission for 23MW in 2010. 

For producing 97MW, they took permission from Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company and Power Development Board, he claimed. 

Imrul said while they were obtaining permission from various government bodies, the plant went on increased production.     

He denied that their power plant was polluting the air even though the DoE lab tests contradict his claims. 

Director Muazzom Hossain of the DoE Chattogram (region) told The Daily Star that they fined the plant for violating conditions on which the clearance was issued. 

“We are keeping an eye on them. If there is any recurrence of violation, tougher action will be taken against them,” he                      added.

Prof Sikandar Khan, president of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon, Chattogram chapter, alleged that big companies were least bothered about protecting the environment. 

“They have money. Now money has taken over everything. So, they don’t care about laws. This has to be stopped at any cost. DoE must take stricter punitive measures against those who violate environmental laws,” he said.

DoE Director Muazzom said a team of DoE would inspect the plant following its letter seeking clearance for increased power generation. “If the requirements for running a 97MW plant is met, we will issue a clearance.”