An illegal brick kiln operating adjacent to an educational institution and residential area in Roumari, Kurigram, is putting students and local residents at serious health risk. Smoke and dust from "M/s DGL Bricks" have created severe environmental hazards, while nearby farmers report declining crop yields due to soil degradation.
Local sources revealed that the kiln was established 7–8 years ago right next to Chaktabari High School during the previous regime. Students report that toxic smoke and dust routinely enter classrooms, causing frequent respiratory illnesses and disrupting the learning environment. Residents note that dust covers nearby homes, fruit production has plummeted, and children and the elderly suffer from continuous health complications.
Under the Brick Manufacturing and Kiln Establishment (Control) Act, 2013, running brick kilns near educational institutions and residential areas is strictly prohibited. However, multiple kilns in Roumari continue to operate in violation of these statutory regulations.
Chaktabari High School Headmaster Shahidul Islam declined to comment on the matter, with locals noting a close familial relationship between him and the kiln owner. Repeated phone calls to Saifur Rahman Bablu, owner of DGL Bricks, went unanswered.
Upazila Academic Supervisor Moktar Hossain stated that no formal written complaint has been received from the school managing committee yet, but necessary legal action will follow once a complaint is lodged.
Rezaul Karim, an official at the Kurigram Department of Environment, confirmed that DGL Bricks has no valid clearance or authorization. He noted that the kiln was fined last year for operating illegally near a school and residential area, adding that fresh drives will soon be conducted against six unauthorized brick kilns operating in Roumari.
— Daily Best News Desk • Fearless in the search for truth
Reported by Roumari (Kurigram) Representative • Edited by the Daily Best News desk. Send corrections to [email protected].
