Call for using AAC blocks, not burnt bricks

The use of environment-friendly and cost-effective building materials like autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks instead of burnt bricks can play an effective role in reducing pollution.

The observations were made at the inaugural ceremony of 'Commercial Production of Maxcrete AAC Blocks and Panels', hosted by Max Group, the mother company of Maxcrete AAC Blocks and Panels on Thursday.

Housing and public works minister RAM Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury attended the programme as the chief guest at Maxcrete plant in Manikganj.

Housing and public works secretary Md Nabirul Islam was present as the guest of honour with Max Group chairman engineer Ghulam Mohammed Alomgir in the chair.

Department of Architecture chief architect Mir Monzurur Rahman, National Housing Authority chairman Khondoker Mostafizur Rahman, House Building Research Institute director general Md Ashraful Alam, Public Works Department chief engineer Mohammad Shamim Akhter, Rajuk chairman Maj Gen (retd) Md Siddiqur Rahman Sarker and Manikganj deputy commissioner Rahana Akther, among others, were also present.

At the event, Mr Muktadir said, "Dhaka is one of the most polluted cities globally. One of the main reasons behind this pollution is that building materials are not environment-friendly here."

"People are trying to be freed from black smoke. The use of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks instead of burnt bricks can be a good initiative to this end."

Urging businesspeople to invest in the construction sector, the minister said their investment would not go to waste.

According to NHA chairman Mostafiz, "It's a rising sector of the country and our environment will be well-protected if this sector is promoted."

At the programme, Mr Siddiq said an investment-friendly climate must be ensured to attract foreign investors.

The use of AAC blocks instead of burnt bricks would play a vital role in improving the country's natural environment, he added.

Max Group, a local versatile engineering conglomerate, has invested Tk 1.5 billion in building an eco-friendly and fully-automated AAC block factory, which will be an alternative to conventional red-clay bricks.

Maxcrete Limited has an annual production capacity of 365,000 cubic metres. It is expected to go into full production after the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha.

In addition to contributing to environmental preservation, Maxcrete products offer cost-effective solutions for builders and developers while ensuring long-term durability and structural integrity.

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