A special joint anti-pollution drive was carried out across Dhaka city on Saturday, resulting in 32 cases, fines totalling Tk 255,000, and the seizure of several hydraulic horns.

The operation was led by the Department of Environment (DoE) and conducted in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the BRTA, Dhaka North City Corporation, Dhaka South City Corporation, RAJUK, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, RAB, BNCC, Bangladesh Scouts, Green Voice, Fire Service and Civil Defense.

A total of 10 magistrate teams took part in the drive, with the DoE operating three teams independently.

Under the Noise Pollution Control Rules 2006, two mobile courts were operated in the Engineers Institution Bangladesh (IEB) area and Uttara, where Tk 11,000 in fines were imposed in five cases and 12 hydraulic horns were seized. Several drivers were also warned on the spot.

Another mobile court conducted in the IEB area targeted vehicles emitting excessive black smoke. The court lodged 15 cases, imposing Tk 70,000 in fines. Drivers were cautioned about maintaining environmentally friendly vehicles.

In accordance with the Air Pollution Control Rules 2022, two mobile courts were held in Basila Mohammadpur and Uttara Diabari, focusing on dust pollution caused by construction materials. These drives resulted in eight cases and fines of Tk 155,000. Nearby establishments were instructed to adopt measures to curb dust pollution.

For violations of Section 6(k) of the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act 1995 (amended 2010)—which prohibits the production, sale, supply, and marketing of banned polythene—another mobile court in Uttara filed five cases, imposing Tk 19,000 in fines. Market and shop owners were made aware of the ban, while leaflets were distributed to raise public awareness.

The Department of Environment said such operations will continue regularly across Dhaka and elsewhere in the country to protect public health and the environment.