Netrokona, Feb 27 (V7N) – In a bid to combat the environmental impact of traditional brick production, eco-friendly concrete blocks are being produced in the Atpara area of Netrokona. Made using local materials such as Nokal pebble stones, stone dust, coarse sand from riverbeds, cement, and sometimes fly ash, these blocks are being used for constructing multi-story buildings in both public and private sectors.

As demand for bricks has surged with the rise in construction of solid buildings, the environmental damage caused by brick kilns, including the depletion of arable land and air pollution from toxic emissions, has become a serious concern. To address this, the Bangladesh Housing Building Research Institute (HBRI) has introduced a cost-effective, environmentally friendly concrete block alternative to traditional bricks.

In the Swaramoshia area of Atpara, the Shah Sultan Eco Block factory has begun producing various types of these blocks. The blocks, which offer a 40% cost reduction compared to traditional bricks, are lightweight, earthquake-resistant, fireproof, and capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. These properties make them an ideal solution for building in diverse climates, offering a temperate environment in both hot and cold weather.

Mohammad Yakub Ali, Managing Partner of Shah Sultan Eco Block, mentioned that the government has set a target to ensure the use of eco-friendly blocks in all public construction projects by 2025. While the implementation of this directive has been slow, the company has increased its production capacity to meet the growing demand. Various government and private buildings, including offices and homes, have already been constructed using these blocks in the area.

Rafiqul Islam, Senior Assistant Engineer of the Netrokona Local Government Engineering Department, confirmed that efforts are underway to comply with government directives to use environmentally friendly blocks in public construction. The plan is to gradually increase their use in line with official guidelines.

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