Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has stated that waste must not be burned under any circumstances—whether at the Matuail Sanitary Landfill or anywhere else.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday noon after inspecting the Matuail landfill in Dhaka, she emphasized that various initiatives will be taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the people living in and around landfill areas.
The advisor acknowledged that immediate relocation of the landfill from Matuail is not possible. However, she mentioned that two nearby steel mills will be instructed to shut down.
She firmly stated that burning batteries or extracting lead from them will not be allowed. The Department of Environment has already taken action against some battery factories, and further steps will be taken if new complaints arise.
During the visit, the advisor said that air pollution in Dhaka has become a serious public health concern. She called for coordinated efforts among city corporations, the Department of Environment, and other relevant agencies to tackle the issue. She also stressed the importance of public awareness alongside government initiatives and warned that violators of environmental rules will face penalties.
The advisor visited several air pollution-prone areas including Matuail Sanitary Landfill, Samadnagar in Jatrabari, Narsingdi Road, Chittagong Road, Kachpur, Sharifpara, and various locations under Dhaka North and South City Corporations. She reviewed air pollution control measures and spoke to local residents.
Residents shared their health problems, including respiratory issues, caused by pollution. They demanded the speedy relocation of the landfill and urgent action to stop the burning of waste for the sake of public health. The advisor listened to their concerns and assured them of appropriate action.
Present during the visit were Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation; Md. Shahjahan Mia, Administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation; Rubina Ferdousi, Deputy Secretary (Environment) of the Ministry; RSM Munirul Islam, Conservator of Forests, along with representatives from various departments and agencies.