Jhalokathi, Jan 09 (V7N) — A mobile court of the Department of Environment (DoE) conducted a day-long drive against illegal and polluting brick kilns in Nalchity upazila of Jhalokathi district, imposing fines totaling Tk 11 lakh on five establishments.

The operation was carried out from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm on Thursday under the leadership of Executive Magistrate Lovely Yasmin from the Barishal Divisional Office of the Department of Environment. During the drive, two brick kilns had their saw mills demolished, and large quantities of raw bricks were destroyed. Fire Service personnel were deployed to extinguish active kiln fires using water.

DoE Director of the Barishal Division Md Mujahidul Islam and Assistant Director of the Jhalokathi District Office Anjuman Nesa were present during the operation.

According to officials, Tilak Bricks was fined Tk 1 lakh, Riaz-1 Bricks Tk 5 lakh, MMR Bricks Tk 3 lakh, SRB Bricks Tk 1 lakh, and Riaz-2 Bricks Tk 1 lakh for violating environmental laws and operating in ways harmful to air quality.

Environmental experts warn that unregulated brick kilns are a major source of air pollution in Bangladesh, emitting fine particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and other toxic pollutants that significantly increase the risk of respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and long-term health complications, particularly among children and the elderly. Prolonged exposure also degrades soil fertility, damages nearby agricultural land, and threatens local ecosystems.

Public health specialists note that communities living near brick kilns often experience higher rates of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and eye and skin irritation, underscoring the urgent need for strict enforcement of environmental regulations.

Md Mujahidul Islam said the Department of Environment remains committed to safeguarding ecological balance and public health, adding that regular and intensified operations against illegal brick kilns and polluters will continue to ensure environmental protection and compliance with the law.

END/AIJ/SMA/