Crackdown on illegal brick kilns in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur following allegations of unholy nexus

The Jagatsinghpur district administration on Monday launched a crackdown on illegal brick kilns operating in Tirtol and Kujang areas. Raids were conducted on multiple unauthorised kilns, and notices have been issued to at least 15 kiln owners.

Also Read: Illegal brick-kilns continue unabated in Odisha, residents bear the brunt of pollution

Authorities have directed local tehsildars to demolish the allegedly illegal brick kilns using JCB machines if the owners fail to submit valid documents. It is said that for several years, illegal brick kilns have been operating by encroaching on government land along the banks of the Mahanadi, Devi, and Biluakhai rivers in Tirtol, Kujang, and Biridi regions.

These activities have led to severe environmental pollution and caused significant revenue losses to the government. Serious allegations have also emerged claiming the involvement of brick kiln mafias, along with certain administrative officials and local political leaders, in running these illegal operations.

“I have asked the Sub-Collectors and tehsildars concerned to crack down on illegal brick kilns and smuggling of soil. We are keeping a strict vigil on the illegal activities and also carrying out raids from time to time,” Jagatsinghpur District Collector, J Sonal, expressed.

“We are giving a chance to all parties concerned to put up their views and submit the requisite documents, so that there would be no procedural lapses. We have issued notices to several brick kilns that are suspected to be operating sans valid documents,” the Collector added.

Reported By: Manas Kanungo