GURUGRAM: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) to close a brick kiln in Rewari within a week, contingent upon confirming whether it possesses a valid Consent to Operate (CTO). This directive follows claims that the facility was violating environmental regulations and continuing operations despite a district-level closure order.
Local resident Vikram Singh reported that Raria Brick Udyog in Kanmajra village was operating unlawfully, stating that it did not meet the standards set forth in the Union environment ministry’s notification from February 22, 2022.
During the proceedings, the tribunal’s principal bench emphasized that the facility cannot operate without a valid CTO.
This case highlights the enforcement challenges that remain, despite regulatory and administrative actions. The applicant noted that the HSPCB canceled the kiln’s CTO in April 2023; nevertheless, the unit persisted in its operations for months afterwards.
Moreover, the applicant’s counsel submitted a closure order from the Rewari district magistrate dated April 8, 2026, mandating the kiln’s immediate shut down for operating without consent. Regardless, inspections on April 10 and 11 revealed the unit was still operational, raising concerns over enforcement efficacy.
The tribunal acknowledged a show-cause notice from the HSPCB issued on March 16, 2026, indicating that the kiln continued operation despite the cancellation of its consent and was using coal as fuel. The board has committed to completing proceedings under this notice within six weeks, adhering to the principles of natural justice.
Furthermore, the tribunal directed that if the kiln operated without a valid consent in the past, the pollution control board should initiate proceedings to impose environmental compensation, following due process.
The NGT’s ruling underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring compliance from brick kilns, which significantly contribute to air pollution in the region, particularly through coal use and emissions during peak operating seasons.
