X-ray film recycling in Debidwar turns discarded plates into a source of livelihood
X-ray film recycling in Debidwar is no longer a fantasy—it has become a reality transforming discarded medical waste into sustainable income and employment opportunities. In a remote corner of Bhoysherkot village under Mohanpur Union, Cumilla’s Debidwar upazila, an innovative local factory is reshaping the economy by washing and reprocessing old X-ray films.
This unique initiative began in 2001 with entrepreneur Abul Hossain, who established the ‘Al Amin Paper Agency’ in Babubazar, Dhaka. Facing financial constraints, he expanded operations to his native village, setting up a local processing center. Initially mocked, he now employs 10–12 local workers who earn up to BDT 800–900 daily by cleaning and repackaging used X-ray plates for garment factories.
Factory manager Md. Shamim Hossain explains, “We collect discarded X-ray films from scrap dealers, private hospitals, and even through government tenders, including CMH.” The films are soaked, scrubbed to remove radiation-sensitive layers, and dried before packaging. These recycled sheets are then used to make stiffeners in garments like caps, cups, and collars.
A visit to the site revealed a bustling cottage industry—some workers clean the films, others dry them in the sun, and some handle packaging. Demand is rising, but supply remains limited. “If we had enough raw material,” said Shamim, “we could easily employ hundreds more and contribute more significantly to the economy.”
However, the process isn’t without health concerns. Dr. Manjur Hossain of Debidwar Upazila Health Complex cautions, “Used X-ray films contain traces of radioactive and chemical substances. Without proper safety gear like gloves and masks, workers may face health hazards.”
Debidwar’s Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Abul Hasnat Khan praised the initiative as “a remarkable example of innovation with waste.” He added that the administration is monitoring environmental safety, including how residual waste and chemical residues are being managed.
X-ray film recycling in Debidwar is not just a small-town experiment—it symbolizes rural entrepreneurship and a sustainable model for economic inclusion. If replicated and supported, this initiative could reshape how we treat medical waste across the country.
