Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said that the government will not allow the setting up of new brick kilns.
Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan addresses a views-exchange meeting at the ministry.
“As many as 3,491 brick kilns operating illegally will be shut down,” she said at a views-exchange meeting with officials of the Department of Environment and representatives of the Bangladesh Brick Manufacturing Owners Association (BBMOA) at the ministry on Thursday (September 19).
Expressing deep concern over the environmental impact of brick kilns, the adviser said, “It is not enough to construct buildings only, we have to ensure a livable environment for our future generations.”
“The average life expectancy of people is decreasing by 5-7 years due to air pollution. Therefore, no brick kiln can be operated without license and clearance,” she added.
Directing DoE officials to take strict action against corruption, she said that all illegally constructed brick kilns in the hilly areas will be relocated.
The BBMO leaders highlighted the challenges of the brick kiln industry and proposed adopting environment-friendly technology. They sought the government’s cooperation to encourage the use of green technology in brick kilns and submitted a memorandum to the adviser.