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Deputy Commissioners have been urged to safeguard Bangladesh's environment, ecosystems, and biodiversity, said Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury on Tuesday.
The minister called upon DCs to take decisive action against the filling of water bodies and wetlands, halting construction on hillsides and foothills, and combating illegal brick kilns that threaten public health and the environment.
Moreover, he underscored the importance of ensuring the permanent closure of defunct brick kilns while promoting the use of eco-friendly block bricks in government projects.
Speaking at the Deputy Commissioner Conference 2024, Saber Hossain Chowdhury highlighted the need for comprehensive cooperation to prevent environmental degradation amidst the ongoing development activities across districts.
In addressing air and plastic pollution, minister Chowdhury urged the adoption of district-specific action plans targeting road construction, brick kilns, waste management, and single-use plastics.
He encouraged innovative approaches to environmental protection and pollution prevention, including the cessation of banned polythene shopping bags and single-use plastics in government offices at the grassroots level.
Furthermore, the minister stressed the necessity of Deputy Commissioners' active involvement in safeguarding forest lands, combating illegal encroachment, and curbing activities such as illegal sawmills and lead-acid battery recycling.
He emphasised the role of Deputy Commissioners in overseeing and supporting the implementation of ongoing climate change projects across districts, ensuring their effective execution.
Minister Chowdhury emphasised the imperative of collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change and Deputy Commissioners to uphold Bangladesh's environmental integrity and biodiversity.
Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed, Director General of Environment Department Dr Abdul Hamid and Chief Conservator of the Forest Department Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury were also present at the conference.