Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the importance of increasing the use of blocks in government construction projects as a measure to reduce air pollution and preserve arable land. This initiative is seen as a significant step toward sustainable development, requiring collective efforts from all stakeholders for successful implementation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana made these remarks during a consultation held at the Bangladesh Secretariat. The meeting focused on strategies to enhance the use of blocks in public construction works, aiming to mitigate air pollution and protect agricultural land. Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan was present as a special guest.
Rizwana highlighted the environmental benefits of using blocks, stating that they enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the construction sector. She assured commitment to collaborating with all relevant ministries and stakeholders to achieve this goal. “This initiative marks a groundbreaking step in environmental conservation and sustainable development,” Rizwana added.
The meeting discussed various policy supports to boost block production and usage. Key proposals included tax exemptions for blocks, reduced customs duties, and lower import duties on machinery used for block production. Additionally, there was a call to update rate schedules of organisations like LGED, the Department of Public Works, City Corporations, and municipalities to incorporate block use in development projects.
To ensure the quality of blocks, the meeting stressed the need to set national standards with the help of the Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI) and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). Environment Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed chaired the meeting, which was attended by various ministry representatives, construction sector experts, and block manufacturing firms.
Siddharth Shankar Kundu, Deputy Secretary of the Pollution Control Wing at the Ministry of Environment, delivered a power-point presentation during the meeting. Earlier, a separate meeting was held to plan a cleanliness programme on Saint Martin’s Island, scheduled for the second week of February, involving local volunteers, students, and various organisations.