12 Illegal Battery Factories Shut in Dhaka

The Department of Environment (DoE) has shut down 12 illegal lead battery factories in Konapara, Jatrabari, and Aminbazar, Savar, as part of efforts to combat air pollution. These factories were involved in unauthorized battery dismantling and smelting, posing serious 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 facilities sealed. The raid uncovered toxic lead smelting activities causing respiratory illnesses among locals due to prolonged exposure.

Local volunteers and community members played a key role in identifying the illegal facilities and providing intelligence.

In a separate drive in Aminbazar, Savar, six illegal lead smelting furnaces were demolished with support from Bangladesh Police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). Affected residents expressed satisfaction with the DoE's firm stance against these hazardous operations.

The DoE urged the public to remain vigilant and report similar illegal activities, emphasizing the importance of collective action to prevent environmental pollution. It reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous enforcement for a cleaner, healthier environment.