Environment Minister Md Shahab Uddin has ordered the director general of the Department of Environment (DoE) and others concerned to conduct special drives from Wednesday to reduce air pollution. Three executive magistrates of the DoE will conduct the drives against air-polluting companies and vehicles, he said at the Annual Development Program (ADP) meeting held at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on Tuesday. To increase the number and extent of drives, a request would be sent to Ministry of Public Administration and Public Security Division for appointing more executive magistrate and law enforcement personnel, he said. The minister also said inter-ministerial meetings should be held to coordinate with other relevant ministries to take and implement decisions. Read more: Around 60 percent brick kilns are operating illegally: Minister “I will participate in campaigns if necessary to create awareness about air and noise pollution,” he said. He also instructed the project directors concerned  to take effective measures to stop use of hydraulic horns and noise pollution.

At least 400 teenagers have been detained during special drives over the last nine days since January 26 in Hatirjheel area, a popular recreational spot for residents of the capital, on charge of harassing visitors.