Assam: Crackdown on illegal brick kilns in Rowmari, authorities demolish structures

In a major crackdown on illegal brick kilns, the Kamrup administration has successfully demolished ten unauthorized Bengali brick kilns in the Singra-Rowmari area under the Boko Revenue Circle. These kilns had been operating in defiance of both the Assam government’s regulations and the Pollution Control Board's guidelines. 

On Tuesday, a coordinated operation led by Boko Revenue Circle Officer Dibas Bordoloi and Boko Police Officer-in-Charge Rajib Nath resulted in the demolition of the illegal structures using excavators. The operation was conducted after the authorities received reliable information about the illicit activities. Notably, the owners and workers of the kilns fled the site upon learning about the impending action.

Local residents have long raised concerns over the environmental hazards posed by these illegal kilns, which are often set up after the monsoon season. Environmental activists from Singra highlighted that the smoke and ash emitted by these kilns contribute to severe air pollution, leading to respiratory problems in the community. Furthermore, the kilns are believed to be using valuable timber, including sal and teak, sourced from the Singra Reserved Forest, possibly without proper authorization from the Forest Department. 

Additionally, it was reported that these illegal operators sometimes use vehicle tires to speed up the burning process, which contributes to the foul odor and further environmental degradation in the region. 

Despite repeated warnings, locals complained that these business owners often resort to confrontations when challenged. However, the recent operation has been widely praised by the community for taking decisive action.

Revenue Circle Officer Dibas Bordoloi, speaking during the operation, confirmed that the information about the illegal kilns had prompted immediate intervention. He assured that similar operations would be carried out in other areas within the Boko Revenue Circle if further illegal activities are reported.

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