JALDHAKA, NILPHAMARI, May 2: Road repair work in Jaldhaka Upazila of Nilphamari is being carried out by burning old shoes and sandals to melt tar, raising serious concerns over public health and environmental damage.
The incident was observed on the Jaldhaka-Kaimari road in Nekbakt Munshipara (Lechurtol) area under Dawabari Union, where workers were seen using burnt rubber from old shoes and sandals as fuel in a tar-melting furnace.
Locals say the thick black smoke generated from the process is severely affecting air quality, causing breathing difficulties and posing risks to nearby agricultural crops.
During a field visit on Saturday, it was found that large quantities of old footwear were being openly burned to heat tar. The resulting dense black smoke engulfed the area, creating an unbearable environment for residents.
An SSC examinee, Abdul Khaleq, said the ongoing smoke is causing irritation in the eyes and throat, making it difficult for students to concentrate on studies during exams.
Local resident Asadul Haque said it has become impossible to stay inside homes due to the pollution, adding that families with children are suffering the most. He said a written complaint has been submitted to the Upazila Nirbahi Officer seeking action.
Passers-by Jamal Uddin and Nazrul Islam said a tar-heating furnace has been set up in a densely populated residential area with the involvement of local individuals. They added that the smoke and dust have made movement along the road extremely difficult.
They also reported that nearby maize, rice and other crops are being damaged due to the pollution.
When journalists visited the site, some local individuals allegedly involved in the process reacted aggressively, questioning why the media had come to report on the matter.
Upazila Engineering Office Work Assistant Raju admitted that the situation is causing inconvenience and environmental harm. He said the contractor set up the equipment there due to a lack of suitable isolated space.
Workers involved in the process said that earlier materials like rice husk and wood dust were used as fuel, but due to unavailability, old rubber sandals and shoes are now being used as an alternative.
Investigations revealed that a contractor named Ranjoo from Saidpur Upazila in Nilphamari is implementing the three-kilometre road renovation project. However, no signboard of the contracting firm was found at the site.
