News Flash
DHAKA, April 5, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said waste must not be burned under any circumstances - whether at the Matuail Sanitary Landfill or anywhere else.
Talking to journalists after inspecting the Matuail landfill in Dhaka, she said various initiatives will be taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the people living in and around landfill areas.
The adviser acknowledged that immediate relocation of the landfill from Matuail is not possible.
However, she mentioned that two nearby steel mills will be instructed to shut down.
She firmly stated that burning batteries or extracting lead from them will not be allowed.
The Department of Environment has already taken action against some battery factories, and further steps will be taken if new complaints arise, Rizwana said.
During the visit, the adviser said air pollution in Dhaka has become a serious public health concern.
She called for coordinated efforts among city corporations, the Department of Environment, and other relevant agencies to tackle the issue.
She also stressed the importance of public awareness alongside government initiatives and warned that violators of environmental rules will face penalties.
The environment adviser visited several air pollution-prone areas including Matuail Sanitary Landfill, Samadnagar in Jatrabari, Narsingdi Road, Chittagong Road, Kachpur, Sharifpara, and various locations under Dhaka North and South City Corporations.
She reviewed air pollution control measures and spoke to local residents.
Residents shared their health problems, including respiratory issues, caused by pollution. They demanded the speedy relocation of the landfill and urgent action to stop the burning of waste for the sake of public health.
The adviser listened to their concerns and assured them of appropriate action.
Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation; Md. Shahjahan Mia, Administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation; Rubina Ferdousi, Deputy Secretary (Environment) of the Ministry; RSM Munirul Islam, Conservator of Forests, were present, among others.
