DHAKA, March 28, (V7N) – In a decisive action against air pollution, the Department of Environment (DoE) has shut down 12 illegal lead battery factories operating in Konapara, Jatrabari, and Aminbazar, Savar. These unauthorized facilities were dismantling and smelting batteries without approval, posing severe health and environmental risks.

A joint operation by the DoE and Jatrabari police in the early hours of Friday led to the closure of six factories in Konapara, with two being sealed off. Officials discovered illicit lead smelting activities releasing toxic fumes, which had caused respiratory illnesses among local residents. Community members actively participated in identifying these hazardous sites.

In a separate enforcement drive, six illegal lead smelting furnaces in Aminbazar, Savar, were demolished with the support of police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). Residents welcomed the crackdown, expressing relief over the government’s firm stance against environmental hazards.

The DoE has urged the public to stay vigilant and report similar illegal operations, stressing the need for collective action to prevent further pollution and safeguard public health.

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