Department of Environment (DoE) in Chattogram region today fined 12 businesses Tk 6,61,000 for polluting environment and breaking environmental laws.

DoE imposed the fine after a hearing at its office in Khulshi area of the port city.

Mohammad Moazzom Hossain, DoE regional director, said Sakura Steel Limited in Cumilla was fined Tk 60,000 for a dysfunctional ETP (effluent environment plant) and National Cement Mill Limited in Chattogram was fined Tk one lakh for violating DoE clearance conditions.

Apart from this, 10 other businesses including five brick kilns, a hospital, a filling station, and a fabric printing factory were fined a total of Tk five lakh for not renewing DoE clearance certificate, he added.