Poultry farm waste and foul odor plague more than 100 families
Photo: Agamir Somoy
More than 100 families in the densely populated West Ludhua village of Purba Fatepur Union in Matlab North Upazila of Chandpur are suffering from poultry farm waste and a severe foul odor. Allegations have emerged that chicken droppings and other waste from the farm are being dumped into nearby canals and ponds.
Local residents claim that the pollution has not only damaged the environment but also disrupted the use of canal water and fish farming in ponds. Affected residents have even alleged that a marriage proposal for a girl fell through because of the foul odor.
According to locals, the poultry farm has failed to manage its waste properly for a long time, spreading an unbearable stench throughout the area. Waste has mixed with the canal water, making it unsuitable for use. Meanwhile, pond owners have been unable to raise fish because waste is entering their ponds. Residents say they cannot find relief even after keeping their doors and windows closed because of the odor. The situation has disrupted normal life in the area.
Nur-e-Alam Bepari, one of the affected residents, said children and older people in particular were suffering from various problems, including breathing difficulties, nausea and headaches because of the foul odor. As the situation continues day after day, frustration and concern are growing among local families.
Local residents Nur Nabi Munshi, Shahida Begum and Shamsunnahar, along with members of several other families, said they had no objection to operating a poultry farm in a populated area. However, they insisted that the farm’s waste must be managed properly. They said they had been suffering for a long time because waste was being dumped into canals and ponds, damaging the environment.
Local residents have filed a written complaint with the Matlab North Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO). According to the complainants, the upazila administration scheduled a hearing following the complaint, but no representative of the farm management attended on the scheduled date.
Residents fear that failure to take effective measures to manage the waste could adversely affect the environment and public health. They have called for a prompt investigation, necessary action and proper waste management.
However, poultry farm owner Mohammad Mahin Hossain denied the allegations made by local residents.
“I established my farm in a hygienic manner. My farm is not causing any environmental damage. I also produce gas through a biogas plant and supply it to several households. The upazila livestock officer visited my farm just a few days ago,” he said.
Dr. Shyamal Chandra Das, Matlab North Upazila Livestock Officer, said, “I visited Mahin’s poultry farm and inspected it. I have not received any complaints regarding waste or environmental pollution. Environmental pollution is not the responsibility of our department. Our job is to increase livestock production. Waste management and environmental pollution fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environment.”
Sharmita Ahmed Lia, an inspector at the Chandpur office of the Department of Environment, said, “If we receive a complaint regarding this matter, we will inspect the site and take the necessary action.”
Mahmuda Kulsum Moni, Matlab North Upazila Nirbahi Officer, said, “After receiving the complaint, a date was scheduled for a hearing on the matter. The farm authorities did not attend the scheduled hearing. The matter will be verified and necessary action will be taken in accordance with the law.”
