TURA:
A significant surge in the establishment of illegal brick kilns in the plain areas of West Garo Hills, causing environmental degradation and posing potential risks to public health, has prompted decisive action from the West Garo Hills district administration. To counter this issue, Section 144 CrPC has been invoked, prohibiting the unlawful operation of such factories and initiating legal measures.
Numerous brick kilns line the Damalgre-Garobadha road, particularly in the plain belt region of West Garo Hills, despite the illegality of converting agricultural land for industrial purposes according to central laws. Most brick kilns operate on prime agricultural land, notably paddy fields, extracting rich soil for brick production, thereby causing substantial harm to the fields.
The Prohibition order issued by West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani highlights the urgency to address the proliferation of unauthorised brick kilns, stressing the environmental degradation and potential harm to public health. The order, effective immediately, prohibits the establishment, operation, or expansion of any brick kiln without authorisation within the jurisdiction of West Garo Hills District. Individuals engaged in activities related to illegal brick kilns, including construction, operation, or transportation of materials, are restrained from continuing such activities.
Violators of this order will face legal consequences under relevant provisions of the law, including potential closure of the illegal brick kiln, imposition of fines, and initiation of criminal proceedings. The order will remain in force unless withdrawn, as confirmed on this February 4, 2024, by Jagdish Chelani, IAS, District Magistrate, West Garo Hills, Tura.