Residents of Barbaria village in Gangutia Union under Dhamrai upazila in Savar have accused Incepta Pharmaceuticals Limited of discharging untreated industrial effluent into the Gazikhali River over an extended period, alleging that the pollution has severely affected the river's ecosystem and poses risks to public health.
According to local residents, chemical-laden wastewater released from the pharmaceutical factory has turned sections of the river black, leading to the death of native fish and other aquatic organisms. They also reported a persistent foul odor along the riverbanks, saying the pollution has become increasingly noticeable in recent years.
During a recent visit to the area, blackened water was observed in several parts of the river. Dead fish and other aquatic life were seen floating on the surface, while foam and bubbles had accumulated near points where wastewater appeared to enter the river. Residents said fish populations have declined sharply and expressed concern about using the river water for irrigation or livestock.
"The entire surrounding environment is being polluted because of the factory's waste," said local resident Jewel Rana. "Children, elderly people, and other residents have been exposed to foul odors, polluted water, and chemical contamination for a long time. Although the matter has been reported to the authorities several times, we have not seen any effective action."
Another resident, Abul Hossain, alleged that the company has failed to fulfill its environmental responsibilities.
"A large industrial establishment should be more responsible toward the environment," he said. "Instead, profit appears to be given greater importance than public health and environmental protection."
Residents further alleged that although the factory has an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), as required by the Department of Environment, it is not operated effectively at all times, allowing untreated or partially treated wastewater to enter the river.
Under the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995, and the Environment Conservation Rules, 1997, industrial establishments are prohibited from discharging untreated or non-compliant liquid waste into rivers, canals, wetlands, or other water bodies. Pharmaceutical manufacturing is classified as a red-category industry, making the installation and continuous operation of an Effluent Treatment Plant mandatory. Violations may result in fines, compensation orders, suspension of operations, or factory closure.
Environmental experts warn that toxic substances commonly found in pharmaceutical wastewater can reduce dissolved oxygen levels in rivers, causing the death of fish, snails, crabs, and other aquatic organisms while damaging aquatic biodiversity. They also caution that prolonged contamination may adversely affect agricultural land, groundwater quality, and human health.
Responding to the allegations, Md Zahid, an official at Incepta Pharmaceuticals Limited, said, "This is nothing new. It happens often. Journalists come and go, and different kinds of reports are published. We don't pay much attention to it."
Meanwhile, Dhamrai Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Md. Al Mamun said the administration had received information and video footage regarding the alleged pollution.
"I have already informed the Deputy Director and Assistant Director of the Department of Environment," he said. "No institution is allowed to operate without complying with environmental regulations, including the proper operation of an Effluent Treatment Plant. Appropriate action will be taken after the matter is investigated."
Local residents have urged the Department of Environment to conduct an immediate investigation into the allegations and, if violations are confirmed, take appropriate legal action to prevent further pollution of the Gazikhali River.