Residents in Shibpur, Narsingdi, say a battery factory next to Purandia Government Primary School burns discarded batteries, filling classrooms with toxic smoke as authorities investigate possible violations this week urgently.
A battery manufacturing factory located next to a government primary school in Shibpur upazila of Narsingdi has triggered serious concern over environmental pollution, regulatory failure and public health risks, particularly for young children.
The incident highlights broader concerns about weak enforcement of environmental regulations in Bangladesh, particularly in the lead recycling and battery manufacturing sectors. It also raises urgent questions about how industrial operations are allowed to function next to schools and residential areas, putting children and vulnerable communities at risk.
The factory, operated by Asia Car BD Limited, is accused by local residents of burning old and discarded batteries to extract lead, releasing thick black toxic fumes into the surrounding area. Such lead recycling practices are internationally recognised as highly hazardous, especially when conducted without proper pollution control systems. Prolonged exposure to lead and industrial smoke can cause respiratory illness, eye damage and long-term cognitive and developmental harm in children.
The factory stands directly beside Purandia Government Primary School in the densely populated Purandia Bus Stand area under Putia Union. The school is surrounded by a local market and residential houses, placing hundreds of families at daily risk of hazardous air pollution in clear violation of basic environmental and child safety principles.
Parents allege that the factory routinely burns discarded batteries to manufacture new ones, producing a persistent burning smell and clouds of black smoke. Alim Uddin, a parent of a student, said children are being exposed to extreme health risks every day as toxic fumes spread across the school premises. He called for immediate government intervention to protect the students.
Teachers at the school say normal academic activities are frequently disrupted. Sajib Mia, an assistant teacher, said the school compound is often engulfed in smoke, making it difficult to conduct classes. According to him, many children struggle to breathe, while several teachers and students have already developed respiratory problems and eye irritation.
Students, speaking anonymously, reported constant burning sensations in their eyes and difficulty breathing during school hours, raising serious concerns about their long-term health and learning environment.
Local shopkeepers are also bearing the consequences. Amir Hossain, a grocery store owner at the nearby market, said the fumes have corroded tin roofs and damaged shops. He added that the pollution is destroying both livelihoods and the local environment.
When reporters attempted to enter the factory premises, they were denied access, further raising questions about transparency and regulatory compliance. Later, a factory official identified as Roni said over the phone that measures would be taken to control emissions, though no timeline or specific steps were mentioned.
The school’s head teacher, Nadira Afroz, confirmed that written complaints have been submitted to relevant authorities. She said local residents have also organised human chains in protest, but despite repeated appeals, no effective action has been taken so far.
Health experts warn that the situation poses severe risks. Mohammad Mostanshir Billah, Shibpur Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, said any form of industrial smoke is harmful, particularly for children. He noted that lead-related pollution can cause chronic respiratory disease and long-term health complications across all age groups, with children being the most vulnerable.
Responding to the issue, Shibpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Yasmin said the matter would be addressed in coordination with the Department of Environment.
Md Badrul Huda, Deputy Director of the Narsingdi District Department of Environment, said officials had been sent to investigate. He said the factory’s licence status, environmental clearance and compliance with zoning regulations were being verified. He added that legal action would be taken within the next few days in accordance with the law if violations are found.
Environmental and youth rights activists have also condemned the situation. Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, said allowing a lead battery recycling factory to operate beside a primary school reflects a grave failure of environmental governance. He said children should never be forced to choose between education and survival and urged authorities to immediately shut down illegal or non-compliant operations, conduct independent health assessments and ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws to protect children and communities.
