DHAKA, Nov 8, 2025 (BSS) –The government has ramped up operations across the country targeting brick kilns and other polluting establishments to safeguard air quality.

According to officials from the Department of Environment (DoE), a total of 1,823 mobile courts were conducted nationwide between January 2 and November 6, 2025, officials said. 

During these drives, 4,614 cases were filed, resulting in penalising over TK 27 crore.

As part of the enforcement measures, 496 brick kilns were completely shut down through chimney demolitions, 222 kilns were ordered to close, and raw bricks at 138 kilns were destroyed.

The DoE also sealed 28 illegal polythene factories off, disconnected services and electricity to 170 establishments, and sentenced six individuals to different terms.

 Additionally, 11 trucks loaded with lead or battery melting equipment were seized and 13 such factories were shut down.

Officials stated that these operations are part of ongoing efforts to curb air, noise, and waste pollution across the country.

In a recent operation on Thursday, the DoE conducted three mobile courts in Lakshmipur, Bandarban, and Savar — all targeting air-polluting brick kilns. The drives realized TK 24 lakh as fine, demolished three brick kilns, and led to the filing of seven cases. One individual was sentenced to 15 –day imprisonment during the operation.

On the same day, two additional mobile courts were carried out in Azimpur and Tikatuli within Dhaka metropolis to stop black smoke emission from vehicles. The courts imposed TK 40,000 as fine through 11 cases, while several drivers received warnings.

The Department of Environment reaffirmed its commitment to continue such drives to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for all.