Dhaka, March 28 -- In drives against illegal lead battery production the Department of Environment (DoE) has shut down 12 factories operating in Konapara, Jatrabari, and Aminbazar, Savar.

These factories were engaged in unauthorised battery dismantling and smelting, posing severe health and environmental hazards, the DoE said.

A joint operation conducted by the DoE and Jatrabari police early Friday resulted in the closure of six factories in Konapara, including the sealing of two facilities.

These operations uncovered illicit lead smelting activities that were releasing toxic fumes, endangering local residents who had been suffering from respiratory and other health complications due to prolonged exposure.

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