CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, Mar 13: Forest resources are being rapidly destroyed in Char Fasson Upazila of Bhola due to the widespread operation of illegal brick kilns.
The burning of wood to produce bricks is increasing environmental pollution and posing serious health risks to local residents.
Locals have expressed concern that the lack of effective action from the authorities is allowing the situation to continue unabated.
According to sources at the Department of Environment (DoE) in Bhola, there are currently 33 brick kilns operating in Char Fasson Upazila. Of these, 17 are operating without approval, meaning they have neither environmental clearance nor valid licences.
Although the remaining 16 kilns are supposed to use environmentally friendly zigzag technology, there is little evidence that such technology is actually being implemented in practice.
A visit to different areas across the upazila's 21 unions revealed that several brick kilns have stocked large quantities of wood to be used as fuel. Locals alleged that the administration has not taken any visible steps to stop the activity.
Residents say the smoke from the kilns is causing severe environmental and health problems in nearby communities.
Mumtaz Begum, who lives beside Kazi Bricks in Ward No. 2 of Charkachchopia Village under Char Manika union, said the black smoke from the kiln is polluting the surrounding environment.
"The smoke from Kazi Brickfield has made the air around our homes heavy and polluted. Children and elderly people are suffering from breathing difficulties, coughing and eye irritation. Lung-related illnesses are also increasing. We want this kiln shut down," she said.
Local farmer Babul said the smoke from the brick kilns has made it difficult for him to cultivate IRRI paddy and vegetables.
He demanded that the illegal brick kilns be shut down immediately and the burning of wood be completely banned.
He also called for the mandatory use of environmentally friendly technology in brick production, along with regular monitoring and the operation of mobile courts to enforce the law.
When asked whether his kiln had the required approval, Kazi Brickfield owner Md Jahangir Kazi claimed that the kiln operates by paying money to the Department of Environment and the administration.
"We run the brick kiln by paying the authorities. No one has the power to shut it down," he said.
However, Bhola Department of Environment Assistant Director Tota Mia denied the allegation that officials take money from kiln owners.
He said operating brick kilns by illegally burning wood is completely unlawful and that the government has directed kiln owners to adopt environmentally friendly zigzag technology.
"If evidence of violating the law is found, strict action will be taken," he added.
Emadul Hossain, Assistant Commissioner (land) who is currently in charge of the Char Fasson upazila administration, said the issue has come to the authorities' attention.
"No brick kiln will be allowed to operate if it harms the environment. We will conduct drives in coordination with the Department of Environment," he said.
