Despite over 1,200 enforcement drives and millions in fines, environmentalists claim Bangladesh’s anti-pollution campaign is superficial. Critics accuse the Department of Environment of chasing headlines, not results—failing to curb single-use plastics, noise pollution, and illegal industries fueling ecological damage.
The Bangladesh government’s recent surge in environmental enforcement may look impressive on paper, but green activists say the efforts are more show than substance.
From November 2024 to July 2025, the Department of Environment (DoE) conducted 1,262 mobile court drives, filed over 3,000 cases, and imposed fines totaling nearly Tk 26 crore. Yet environmentalists argue these numbers belie a lack of systemic change or long-term impact.
“They’ve made some headlines, but have they made a difference?” asked Amirul Rajiv, leader of the Bangladesh Tree Protection Movement. “What we see is symbolic action — not a serious shift toward sustainable environmental governance.”
DoE records show 496 drives specifically targeted banned polythene use, resulting in 929 cases and Tk 68 lakh in fines. Authorities seized only 251 kilograms of polythene and shut down 16 factories. Environmental groups call this a drop in the ocean.
“Unless the import of raw materials and production of single-use plastics are halted completely, these drives are just eyewash,” said Fardous Ahmed Uzzal, general secretary of Paribesh O Jalabayu Paribartan Andolan. “People remain unmotivated and uninformed.”
Criticism also surrounds the department’s handling of noise pollution. Between January and July, just five mobile court operations were conducted across four districts, leading to 19 cases and minor penalties totaling Tk 26,500.
“What are five noise drives in seven months supposed to accomplish in a country of 170 million?” asked Rajiv. “They’ve ignored real solutions like promoting green technology, engaging local communities, or creating sustainable alternatives.”
Despite these concerns, the DoE claims progress. According to the department, 484 illegal brick kiln chimneys were demolished during this period, and 216 more units received closure orders.
“We’re operating with limited manpower but doing our best,” said Sohrab Ali, additional director general of the DoE. “Our drives will continue.”
But campaigners remain unconvinced. They argue that the enforcement lacks strategic direction, scientific input, and grassroots coordination.
“No amount of press releases can clean the air, water, or land,” said Rajiv. “What we need is not more drives — but real, lasting reform.”
