Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Aug 15, 2026 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam today said ship-recycling yards in Sitakunda must be operated in an environment-friendly manner, with greater accountability and responsibility from operators.

He made the remarks while responding to journalists after visiting Hazarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary in Harualchhari Union of Fatikchhari this afternoon.

Referring to the recent accident at a shipyard in Sitakunda, the state minister said the incident was deeply unfortunate and expressed sympathy for those affected. He noted that ship recycling is a high-risk industry and called on operators to ensure greater safety and responsibility.

On green shipyards, Sheikh Faridul Islam said six yards in Sitakunda are currently operating with approval under the Hong Kong Convention, while the remaining facilities continue to follow the old system. A total of 25 ship-recycling yards are currently operating in the area, he said.

"We will gradually hold more discussions with the shipyard operators. We are giving them time, but their existing system needs to be changed. We want the shipyards to be operated in an environmentally friendly manner," he said.

The state minister also said the government is working to address environmental pollution in various sectors, including rivers, water, air and noise. The Prime Minister is being regularly briefed on developments in these areas, he added.

Chattogram-2 lawmaker Sarwar Alamgir, Fatikchhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sayeed Mohammad Ibrahim, Harualchhari Union Parishad Chairman Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury and others were present during the visit.