Brick kiln operations prohibited due to air quality deterioration: Savar enforces ban from September onwards.
Savar upazila in Dhaka district has taken a significant step towards improving air quality by declaring it a "Degraded Air Shed" due to severe air pollution largely caused by brick kilns. As a result, starting from September 2025, all types of brick kilns in Savar except Tunnel Kilns and Hybrid Hoffman Kilns are restricted from operating [1][2][3][4].
This decision comes after a circular issued by Dr Md Kamruzzaman, Director General of the Department of Environment, on 17 August [1]. The government expects that this declaration will play a vital role in curbing air pollution in both Savar and Dhaka.
The operation of 3,491 brick kilns without environmental clearance will be shut down [1]. Furthermore, no new permits for brick kilns will be issued to curb further pollution [1][5]. The illegal brick kilns, especially those in hilly areas, will be relocated [1].
The government and courts have taken a firm stance following a High Court order for nationwide removal of illegal brick kilns, aiming to protect public health and prevent further environmental degradation [1].
According to the Department of Environment's Continuous Air Monitoring Stations (CAMS) data, the annual average concentration of ambient air pollutants in Savar is almost three times higher than the national standard [1]. This high pollution level poses severe health risks to people, particularly school-going children, who are exposed to toxic emissions produced during brick baking [1].
Besides brick kilns, open burning of solid waste, issuance of location and environmental clearance for industries causing air pollution, and other activities outlined in the action plan have been banned [1]. Under existing laws, brick kilns cannot be established near residential, protected, or commercial areas, nor in proximity to municipal towns, educational institutions, or agricultural land [1].
This move is part of a broader effort to reduce pollution that significantly impacts Dhaka city as well—brick kilns in Dhaka and surrounding areas contribute about 58% of the city's air pollution [1]. The government aims to protect the health and well-being of its citizens by taking decisive action against pollution sources.
Sources: 1. Bangladesh News 24 2. The Daily Star 3. Bangla Tribune 4. Dhaka Tribune 5. New Age
- This decision by the government, aiming to reduce air pollution (climate-change), will also target industries contributing to air pollution (industry).
- With the shutdown of non-compliant brick kilns and restrictions on new permits (finance), the government hopes to improve air quality in Savar, aligning with the goals of environmental science.
- To further combat air pollution (climate-change), the government plans to relocate illegal brick kilns and regulate their operations based on environmental regulations (environmental-science, energy).
