University of Dhaka Students Explore Bangladesh’s Shipbreaking Industry
Upon visiting the Ferdous Steel Ship Recycling Industry (FSSRI) in Sitakunda, a group of students from the University of Dhaka encountered a stark reality of Bangladesh’s shipbreaking industry. The air was tinged with a metallic scent, a warning sign for environmental health experts. The sight of rusted ships lying on their sides, with workers scaling the hulls using blowtorches, painted a vivid picture of the industrial processes at play. Dr. Afrose Sultana Chamon, the practicum course supervisor, described the scene as a place where “steel is borne from the bones of the sea,” highlighting the dual nature of this industry as both an economic lifeline and an environmental concern.
Bangladesh’s shipbreaking industry is a significant contributor to the national economy, generating approximately $10 billion annually, according to the Bureau of Statistics. The Sitakunda coast serves as a global hub for dismantling end-of-life vessels, with reports indicating that between 110 and 254 ships are dismantled each year along a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline. However, the environmental costs of this industry remain largely unaddressed, raising questions about sustainability and ecological impact.
The Process of Shipbreaking: A Necessary Evil
Shipbreaking involves the systematic dismantling of vessels to recover materials, primarily steel scrap. The process is more complex than it appears, as it plays a crucial role in supporting various sectors, including construction and manufacturing. The Sitakunda-Faidjurhat area is recognized as Asia’s leading ship-recycling hub, where crews work tirelessly to dismantle ships from the top down, using cutting torches to remove steel panels and decks. The recovered materials are then sorted and repurposed for various industries, including furniture and electrical manufacturing.
Despite the economic benefits, the environmental implications of shipbreaking are significant. The ships contain hazardous materials such as asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals, which pose risks to both workers and the surrounding ecosystem. The FSSRI facility, which spans 48,640 square meters, is certified under multiple international standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, and claims to follow a structured hazardous materials handling protocol. However, the effectiveness of these measures under commercial pressures remains a concern.
The recent discovery of significant magnetite iron ore reserves in Dinajpur offers potential for reducing reliance on imported steel. With an iron concentration of 60%, these reserves could transform the steel industry in Bangladesh. However, the challenges of mining in the region, including geological and environmental factors, complicate the situation. As the country navigates these opportunities, the shipbreaking industry continues to play a vital role in meeting domestic steel needs, accounting for 60% of the country’s requirements.
Challenges and Progress in the Shipbreaking Sector
Bangladesh’s shipbreaking industry has evolved from a largely unregulated sector to one that is increasingly focused on compliance and safety. Since ratifying the Hong Kong Convention in 2023, the number of compliant yards has grown, with FSSRI leading the charge. The facility has implemented measures to ensure worker safety, including providing personal protective equipment and regular health screenings. However, the industry still faces significant challenges, including workplace accidents and environmental degradation.
Recent reports indicate a decline in worker fatalities, from an average of 15 between 2005 and 2020 to 9.4 in recent years. Nonetheless, incidents still occur, highlighting the need for ongoing reform. A 2023 Human Rights Watch report revealed systemic issues related to toxic waste dumping and worker safety, emphasizing the importance of continued oversight and regulation.
As the University of Dhaka cohort observed during their visit, the FSSRI facility is making strides toward compliance and environmental responsibility. While the shore remains stained by the industry’s legacy, efforts are underway to study and regulate the impact of shipbreaking. The path forward involves balancing economic benefits with environmental stewardship, ensuring that the industry can sustain itself while protecting the health of workers and the ecosystem.
