Meghalaya bans unauthorised brick kilns in West Garo Hills over pollution, health risks

• West Garo Hills authorities banned unauthorised brick kilns citing air pollution and health risks to workers and residents.
• District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal issued the order, effective immediately, under Section 163 BNSS, 2023.
• The ban follows a National Green Tribunal mandate for closure of brick kilns operating without environmental clearance.
• Unauthorised kilns were posing serious health risks to workers and significantly contributing to air pollution.
• The directive was issued ex parte, prohibiting operations across the entire West Garo Hills district.