Illegal kilns thrive, harm environment, brick by brick

GPCB says around 60 of the 75 kilns inthe city operate in an unauthorised manner as they do not have the board’s NOC.However, the board has not taken action yet as it is ‘short-staffed’

A growing number of unauthorised brick kilns in the city are posing environmental concerns and health hazards. According to Gujarat Pollution Control Board’s (GPCB) report submitted to State Environment Ministry on July 24, around 60 of the 75 kilns in the city are illegal.

An official from the team which submitted the report stated, “As the kilns emit toxic fumes containing suspended particulate matter, it is essential to procure a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the board. The NOCs need to be renewed before expiry. However, in the past four years, only 15 kilns have followed the procedure.”

Despite being aware of illegal kilns operating in the city, the GPCB has been sitting on files citing shortage of staff.

“Around 40 per cent posts are vacant. We are struggling to carry out even routine activities. How can we be expected to look into every matter when we do not have manpower?” asked an officer.

As per environmentalists and experts, unaccountability of kilns can further aggravate pollution. Traffic and brick kilns are considered as the most dangerous sources of air pollution. In most of the kilns, they use wood to burn raw bricks which not only leads to deforestation but also causes air pollution, states World Health Organisation (WHO).

“The brick kilns emit harmful ‘particulate matter’ into the air, which is responsible for the alarming rise in respiratory ailments. They contain high concentration of carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide,” said Mahesh Pandya, an environmentalist.

“In fact, many operate within densely populated areas and use rubber tyres and plastic materials,” added Pandya.

Also, several brick kilns operate near lakes and water bodies which are later used as a dumping ground.

“Dumping of waste from the brick kilns ends up clogging and destroying these water bodies. Apart from erosion of soil and pollution, the waste material dumped by the brick kilns also changes the course of flow of water,” said Manoj Negi, a researcher in environmental science.