Odisha’s Balasore most polluted city, 2nd only to Delhi; thanks to illegal brick kilns

Air pollution in Odisha’s Balasore is giving a tough competition to Delhi, thanks to dozens of illegal brick kilns operating in the district backed by local mafias, who are exploiting government lands and riverbeds. 

The proliferation of these brick kilns is majorly deteriorating the air quality in the district, with inhabitants facing serious health risks from smoke and dust. Promises of stringent action by local administration appear yet to materialise. Despite official claims of intolerance towards these unlawful activities, data obtained under the Right to Information Act (RTI) reveal that only two out of 162 kilns have been granted permission, but most illegally functioning.

Inhabitants of areas including Remuna and Dahapada are vocal about their concerns but remain hesitant to challenge kiln operators due to alleged fears of retribution openly.

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“They have left no sand and valuable mud in our area. They engage vehicles to take away the natural resources from the village at night. Despite repeated complaints, no one dares to bat an eyelid as powerful people are behind the brick-kilns. Anyone dares to question them, they give bribe and shut down cases,” alleged SK Hanan, a local.

Similarly, another local, Harish Kumar Jena said, “Not even one single brick-kiln owner has proper documents or permission from the government. Almost everyone is doing it illegally. Authorities just take royalty and sit idle when we lodge any complaint.”

As per reports, during the fiscal year 2023-2024, a substantial fine of Rs 1.30 crore was collected from operators in Remuna tehsil due to unlawful stockpiling of materials. However, the ongoing illegal extraction from government and riverine land persists without meaningful intervention.

Residents, caught in a haze of dust and pollutants from these operations, express a sense of helplessness. Attempts to voice opposition are stifled by the looming menace of the mafias.

When contacted, Dahapada Sarpanch Pranati Jena said, “More than 15-20 illegal brick kilns are operating in our panchayat. They are not adhering to any government guidelines. I’m sure there is political pressure on authorities who do not take any timely action.”

“We have written a letter to the local authority of SPCB (State Pollution Control Board) here to give information on how many brick-kilns have been given environmental clearance. We will take action accordingly. Our first priority will be to take action against those who are operating the brick-kilns by encroaching government lands. We will send a notice first to all the illegal brick-kiln owners. Strict action will be taken if they do not comply with the notice,” informed Balasore sub-collector, Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke.