Burning of waste is strictly prohibited everywhere: Rizwana

Waste must not be burnt under any circumstances, whether at the Matuail Sanitary Landfill or anywhere else, said Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today (5 April).

Speaking to journalists this afternoon after inspecting the Matuail Landfill in Dhaka, she emphasised that various initiatives will be taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the people living in and around landfill areas, according to a press release issued by her ministry.

While acknowledging that immediate relocation of the landfill from Matuail is not possible, 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 added air pollution in Dhaka has become a serious public health concern, while calling 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 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.

During her visit, Rizwana reviewed air pollution control measures and spoke to local residents.

While sharing their health problems, including respiratory issues, caused by pollution, the residents of these areas 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, along with representatives from various departments and agencies were present during the visit.