NEWS

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has mandated the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to implement a new regulatory framework for brick kilns.
• The implementation deadline is set for within one month.
• Objective: To reduce pollution and regulate soil mining by brick kilns.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Pollution Concerns from Brick Kilns

• Brick baking causes significant air pollution.
• Use of traditional fuels like firewood and agricultural residue exacerbates the issue.
• Kilns are mostly manual and small-scale, particularly in Karnataka.

New CPCB Guidelines for Brick Kilns

Technological Upgradation

• Mandatory implementation of zigzag or vertical shaft kiln technology:
  • Improves heat transfer and combustion.
  • Reduces fuel consumption.
• Encouragement for using piped natural gas (PNG) as fuel.

Compliance Timeline

• The original compliance deadline is February 2025.
• MoEF&CC recently amended rules for new chimneys, giving an extension.

Display and Transparency Requirements

• Brick kilns must publicly display key operational details at a visible location:
  • Kiln design and layout.
  • Soil mining site with geo-coordinates.
  • Quantity of soil mined annually.
  • Total area of kiln and annual production.
  • Green belt coverage area.
  • Groundwater usage permissions.
  • Date of last stack emission monitoring.

Current Scenario in Karnataka

• Estimated 6,000 to 10,000 brick kilns in the state.
• Majority concentrated in:
  • Kolar
  • Chikkaballapur
  • Bengaluru Rural districts.
• Many kilns still operate without proper monitoring or environmental safeguards.

Enforcement and Reporting

• KSPCB and other state boards must submit compliance reports within 30 days.
• KSPCB claims it has been issuing general directions and notices to violators.
• The CPCB’s directive aims to enhance accountability and reduce environmental harm.