AUG 04 (V7N) - Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stressed the need for coordinated efforts among all relevant ministries, agencies, and local government institutions to ensure sustainable solutions for pollution control, waste management, and environmental protection.
He made the remarks while chairing a ministerial-level meeting on waste management, water pollution, and environmental pollution control at the Local Government Division in the Bangladesh Secretariat. Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintu and State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam were also present.
Mirza Fakhrul noted that environmental pollution has become a major challenge, driven by rapid urbanization, unplanned waste disposal, indiscriminate dumping into rivers, and widespread use of single-use plastics and polythene bags. He stressed that these issues cannot be resolved through isolated efforts but require coordinated and well-planned measures.
He further stated that government initiatives alone are insufficient, and raising public awareness alongside promoting eco-friendly practices is equally critical. He called for effective steps to reduce harmful polythene use and encourage alternatives.
Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintu, speaking as guest of honour, highlighted his ministry's ongoing conservation programmes and emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-agency coordination and public awareness.
The meeting discussed water pollution, solid waste management, river conservation, and measures to curb environmentally harmful polythene. Participants included Dhaka North and South City Corporation Administrators, Local Government Division Secretary Md. Shahidul Hasan, Rural Development Secretary Mohammad Shawkat Rashid Chowdhury, and senior officials from relevant ministries and agencies.
All underscored the importance of strengthening inter-ministerial coordination to improve waste management, curb water and environmental pollution, and ensure a sustainable environment.
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