Govt to increase block use in construction to reduce pollution, preserve agricultural land: Rizwana

Increasing the use of blocks in government construction projects will not only reduce air pollution but also help preserve agricultural land, Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said today (2 February).

Using blocks in construction projects is a significant step toward sustainable development, she said, stressing the need for taking collective efforts involving all stakeholders to implement the decision, reads a ministry press release.

Rizwana made the remarks at a consultation at the Bangladesh Secretariat.

The meeting focused on strategies to increase the use of blocks in public construction to mitigate air pollution and protect agricultural land.

Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan was present on the occasion as a special guest.

Rizwana, also the water resources adviser, said, "The use of blocks is environment-friendly and it enhances the efficiency and sustainability of the construction sector. We are committed to coordinating with all relevant ministries and stakeholders to achieve this goal.

"This initiative marks a groundbreaking step in environmental conservation and sustainable development. We are dedicated to implementing this plan in collaboration with all concerned departments," she added.

The meeting discussed various policy supports to boost block production and usage. Key proposals included exempting blocks from VAT, reducing customs duties and taxes, and lowering import duties on machinery used for block production.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the need to update the rate schedules of relevant organizations, such as LGED, the Department of Public Works, City Corporations, and Municipalities, to ensure the use of blocks in development projects. 

To maintain the quality of all types of blocks, the meeting emphasized the importance of setting national standards with the assistance of the Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI) and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI).

Earlier in the day, a meeting was held on the implementation of a cleanliness programme on Saint Martin's Island. 

The meeting preliminarily decided to conduct a cleanliness drive on the island in the second week of February, involving local volunteers, students, and representatives from various organisations.