The Department of Environment (DoE) has launched simultaneous nationwide operations against banned polythene and noise pollution.
Six mobile courts were held in Netrokona, Kishoreganj, Khulna, Bandarban, and various locations in Dhaka, including Palashi Mor, Chawkbazar, Imamganj, Swarighat, and Lalbagh. These operations were conducted for violations under Section 6(a) of the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995 (amended 2010), according to a press release from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Twelve cases were filed against the production, sale, supply, and marketing of banned polythene. A total of Tk 24,500 in fines was collected, and 4,560 kg of polythene was seized during the raids.
In areas like Chawkbazar, Swarighat, and Lalbagh, intensified surveillance was carried out, with shop owners, supermarkets, and the general public being warned against using banned polythene.
Simultaneously, a drive against noise pollution was conducted in Nilphamari district, where one mobile court collected Tk 1,000 in fines for two cases and seized two hydraulic horns. Several drivers were also cautioned. In Narayanganj, an illegally operating factory had its utility connections severed, and its operations were shut down.
From January 2 to July 31, 2025, DoE conducted 1,296 mobile court operations, collecting Tk 25,81,88,600 in fines from 3,170 cases. Additionally, 484 brick kiln chimneys were demolished, 216 kilns were shut down, and raw bricks from 133 kilns were destroyed. Utility connections to 16 polythene factories were severed, and electricity was disconnected from 108 establishments. Two individuals were sentenced to one month of rigorous imprisonment. During raids, nine truckloads of lead and battery melting equipment were seized, leading to the closure of 12 factories.
The Department of Environment’s anti-pollution efforts will continue in the future.