DHAKA, Aug 4, 2026 - Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today stressed the need for coordinated efforts among ministries, government agencies and local bodies to ensure sustainable pollution control, effective waste management and environmental protection.
Speaking at a ministerial meeting on waste management and pollution control at the Secretariat, Fakhrul said rapid urbanisation, poor waste management, indiscriminate dumping of waste into rivers and the widespread use of single-use plastics and polythene bags have intensified environmental challenges.
He said these issues require integrated and well-planned action rather than isolated initiatives, adding that public awareness and environmentally responsible practices are as important as government measures. He also called for stronger efforts to reduce the use of harmful polythene bags and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, who attended the meeting, outlined his ministry’s ongoing conservation initiatives and stressed greater coordination among government institutions alongside enhanced public awareness to safeguard the environment.
The meeting reviewed issues relating to water pollution, solid waste management, river conservation and measures to curb environmentally harmful polythene use. Senior officials from the Local Government Division, the Environment Ministry, Dhaka North and South City Corporations and other relevant agencies also attended.
