Coal Piles in Rupganj Pose Environmental Threat

At Shimuliyaghat in Rupganj, Narayanganj, large quantities of coal thousands of tons are being stored in the open near the Kanchan Bridge along the Shitalakshya River, causing severe environmental hazards. There is a high risk of fire breaking out in these coal piles at any time.

Nearby, there is the Purbachal Project of RAJUK (Capital Development Authority) and Shimuliyah High School. Despite multiple notices from RAJUK to cease operations, the coal business has expanded further.

The coal dust is severely affecting 800 to 900 students of the school, making it difficult for them to attend classes regularly. Many students frequently fall ill due to the pollution.

Reports indicate that hundreds of trees in the surrounding area have died due to radiation from the coal piles. Additionally, coal dust and carbon particles have significantly degraded air quality, posing serious health risks, including respiratory diseases and potential lung cancer, according to medical experts.

Local sources claim that this coal business is controlled by Salahuddin, a trusted associate of former Rupganj Union Chairman Gazi Golam Dastagir, a former minister and Awami League leader. Salahuddin reportedly oversees the illegal business from Dubai through his associate Rubel, leaving locals helpless due to their influence.

On Tuesday, a visit to Shimuliyaghat revealed that RAJUK-owned land had been illegally occupied for coal storage. The area resembled a black mountain of coal, with thick dust swirling through the air, making it difficult for pedestrians and students from Shimuliyah High School to pass through.

Approximately 200 yards away, at a jetty, additional coal and stone piles were observed. Large cargo vessels were docked nearby, unloading coal from morning till evening, covering the surroundings in coal dust. Even the grass in front of Shimuliyah High School had turned black, and the air was filled with an unpleasant, suffocating smell.

Shimuliya High School Principal, Md. Motahar Sarkar, stated that the coal business has severely affected students' education. Despite multiple appeals to the coal traders, they have refused to listen. The entire neighborhood, including local schools and kindergartens, is suffering from extreme pollution.

Locals warned that the situation would worsen in the hot summer months (July–August) when the coal piles frequently catch fire under the intense sun, spreading panic among residents.

Rupganj Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Saiful Islam acknowledged the issue, stating that he was aware of the problem and would take immediate action after further investigation.