In a bid to support leather exports and alleviate the additional pressures faced during Eid-ul-Azha.
Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman has announced that tannery industry businessmen will receive short-term environmental certificates until the festive period.
Addressing concerns about compliance with environmental regulations, Salman stated sternly that failure to adhere to the Ministry of Environment’s guidelines post-Eid-ul-Azha will result in the cessation of operations for non-compliant entities.
This announcement came following a crucial meeting with industry stakeholders and officials at Hemayetpur, Savar.
Emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility, Salman assured that tanneries keen on establishing Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) would face no hindrances.
He underscored the temporary nature of the concessions, balancing them with a commitment to uphold environmental, agricultural, and public health standards.
“The leather sector holds significant promise for our nation’s economy,” Salman remarked, reflecting the Prime Minister’s stance. “Accordingly, we are dedicated to fostering its growth by extending comprehensive support.”
Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, echoed Salman’s sentiments, affirming that tanneries in Savar must operate without compromising public health.
He announced stringent timelines for the initiation of ETPs within factory premises and pledged to commence the revocation of environmental clearances for illegal establishments post-Eid-ul-Azha.
Collaborative efforts between the Environment Ministry and the Industries Ministry were underscored by Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun, who acknowledged the complex challenges facing the tannery industry.
Highlighting ongoing initiatives for short and long-term solutions, Humayun reassured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector.
The meeting, attended by luminaries including Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Farina Ahmed, and Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) Chairman Sanjay Kumar Bhowmik, concluded with a collective resolve to address environmental concerns while bolstering the leather industry’s prospects.
In conclusion, the government’s proactive measures underscore its dedication to fostering sustainable industrial growth while safeguarding environmental integrity and public health.
