Illegal brick kilns are seriously polluting the environment due to black smoke
Illegal brick kilns have become a serious threat to the environment in different parts of Bangladesh. Unapproved brick kilns are harming the environment and hindering the government’s revenue collection. The environment is heavily polluted from burning wood, tires, garment waste, and low-quality coal to make bricks.
In particular, black smoke and harmful gas emissions are negatively affecting the health of local residents. The number of unauthorized brick kilns in Debidwar Upazila is more than the authorized ones. The toxic smoke and chemicals from illegal brick kilns are worsening air pollution.
Experts report that local residents are experiencing respiratory issues, asthma, and skin diseases due to pollution. Not only public health, but it is also having a terrible impact on agricultural land. Fertile land is being lost to brick kilns, leading to reduced crop production and threatening agriculture and food security in the long run.
In a country where most people rely on agriculture for their livelihood, unforeseen threats to farming raise concerns about government actions. Even though the law enforcement agencies are conducting operations, they are not being effective enough.
According to the Environment Department, Bangladesh, merely 5 of the 17 brick kilns in Debidwar Upazila of Cumilla District possess valid permits. Despite administrative actions against illegal brick kilns, many continue to operate by exploiting legal loopholes. It will not be enough to end the responsibility by collecting fines; strict monitoring and punishment measures must be ensured.
Protecting the environment is the responsibility of all of us. The administration should take quick and effective action against illegal brick kilns. Ensuring the use of environmentally friendly technology, increasing regular supervision, and raising awareness is the demand of the hour. Otherwise, these illegal brick kilns will gradually push public health and the environment towards dire consequences.
