# State Minister Urges Eco-Friendly Practices in Sitakunda Shipyards

*Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam emphasized the need for eco-friendly operations in ship-recycling yards in Sitakunda, following a recent accident.*

August 16, 2026 · Bangladesh

Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam today called for ship-recycling yards in Sitakunda to be operated in an environmentally friendly manner, with greater accountability and responsibility from operators. He made the remarks while responding to journalists after visiting Hazarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary in Harualchhari Union of Fatikchhari.

Referring to the recent accident at a shipyard in Sitakunda, the state minister expressed sympathy for those affected and emphasized the high-risk nature of the ship recycling industry. He urged operators to ensure greater safety and responsibility. On green shipyards, Sheikh Faridul Islam noted that six yards in Sitakunda are currently operating with approval under the Hong Kong Convention, while the remaining facilities continue to follow the old system. A total of 25 ship-recycling yards are currently operating in the area.

The state minister said, 'We will gradually hold more discussions with the shipyard operators. We are giving them time, but their existing system needs to be changed. We want the shipyards to be operated in an environmentally friendly manner.' He also mentioned that the government is working to address environmental pollution in various sectors, including rivers, water, air, and noise, and that the Prime Minister is being regularly briefed on developments in these areas.

## FAQs

Q: What did the State Minister say about the recent shipyard accident in Sitakunda?
A: The State Minister expressed deep sympathy for those affected by the accident and highlighted the high-risk nature of the ship recycling industry. He called on operators to ensure greater safety and responsibility.

Q: How many shipyards in Sitakunda are currently operating under the Hong Kong Convention?
A: Six shipyards in Sitakunda are currently operating with approval under the Hong Kong Convention.

Q: What is the total number of ship-recycling yards operating in Sitakunda?
A: There are a total of 25 ship-recycling yards operating in Sitakunda.

Q: What steps is the government taking to promote eco-friendly practices in shipyards?
A: The government is holding discussions with shipyard operators to transition their existing systems to more environmentally friendly practices. They are also working on addressing environmental pollution in various sectors.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/bangladesh/state-minister-calls-for-eco-friendly-shipyards-in-sitakunda