Dhaka, Sept. 2 -- The government has taken a series of measures to tackle air pollution in the capital and protect the environment, said Environment, Forests and Climate Change Minister Md Shahab Uddin.

In an interview with UNB, he blamed various development projects in general and brick kilns in particular for the unhealthy air quality of Dhaka.

"Brick kilns are responsible for 58 percent air pollution in the capital," he said. "Plans have been taken to shut the [traditional] kilns currently in operation. We're working to produce eco-friendly bricks."

The minister said the government plans to stop burning bricks at kilns by 2025 and use block bricks to construct buildings under government projects.

Kiln owners have already been direc...