The Meghalaya authorities in West Garo Hills district have taken a significant step to address environmental and health concerns by banning the operation of all unauthorised brick kilns in the area. District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal issued the order on March 14, citing the need to maintain safe air quality levels and protect the health of workers and local residents.
The move follows directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandating the closure of brick kilns operating without environmental clearance. Aggarwal pointed out that several illegal brick kilns were found to be operating in the district, posing serious health hazards to workers and contributing significantly to air pollution.
“The operation of such kilns, if continued, will adversely affect air quality and have a detrimental impact on the health of both workers and the local population,” the order noted. Invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the district administration has prohibited the operation of all unauthorised brick kilns across the district with immediate effect.
Officials said the directive was issued ex parte due to the urgency of the situation, and it has come into force immediately. The administration’s decision is aimed at mitigating the environmental and health risks associated with unauthorised brick kiln operations in the district.