Brick kilns in Jharkhand need exemption from strict norms

18 Jan 2022 CW Team

The red brick industry, which has been accused of environmental pollution, appealed to policy-makers for making a pro-con list before creating norms that will be tough to follow.

The brick manufacturers ready for switching to cleaner technology are skeptical that the strict regulations might put the small and medium businesses out of business.

The manufacturers are also doubtful regarding the future of their businesses due to the center’s carbon phase-down policy.

There are approximately over 2,000 brick kilns in Jharkhand providing direct and indirect employment to about three lakh people. Estimates suggest that the industry provides employment opportunities for a period of 120-150 days every year with an average wage rate of Rs 500 for every individual.

Even after adopting environment-friendly technology, this industry is constantly under the radar of environmental activists for considering it a polluting industry.

Jharkhand Pradesh Brick Manufacturers Association (JPBMA), Ranchi district President, Abhay Tiwari, said many brick kilns have transitioned to fuel-efficient zig-zag kilns from the previous Fixed Chimney Bull’s Trench (FCBT) model considered to be highly polluting for improving efficiency and reducing emissions.

The coal is burned efficiently with the help of the zig-zag kilns fitted with boosters which reduce coal consumption by 60% in comparison with the FCBT model.

The National Green Tribunal had recently passed an order for shutting the operation of coal-based zig-zag kilns in Delhi for safeguarding the heavily polluted regions.

Although the order has not been passed in Jharkhand there is a fear if it happens the businesses would fall into the hands of the corporates.

Some are switching to kilns that are PNG and CNG-fueled. However, it is too expensive for small business owners.

Image Source

Products

12 May 2026

MagickHome Expands into India’s Furniture Segment

MagickHome has expanded into India’s furniture segment with the launch of a new portfolio comprising sofas, beds and dining sets, marking the company’s entry beyond modular interiors.The company said the new range has been developed with a focus on design, comfort and durability, while leveraging its manufacturing and engineering expertise built over three decades. The collection offers more than 500 combinations of fabrics, finishes and configurations, enabling customised solutions for Indian homes.According to the company, the furniture range uses kiln-seasoned solid wood structures, pre..

Top 10 Cement Companies in India

India’s cement industry is the backbone of the country’s infrastructure and real estate growth. With massive investments in highways, metros, housing, and industrial corridors, demand for cement continues to rise steadily. In 2026, the industry is not just expanding in capacity but also evolving through sustainability initiatives, digitalisation, and advanced manufacturing technologies.From producing low-carbon cement to expanding distribution networks across urban and rural India, leading companies are playing a crucial role in shaping the nation’s-built environment. Here’s a detailed..

Greenply Launches Ecotec Prime Economy Plywood

Greenply Industries has launched Ecotec Prime, a new plywood product in the economy segment featuring fire-retardant and boiling waterproof technologies.The company said Ecotec Prime combines IS 5509-certified fire-retardant properties with BWP-grade water resistance, aimed at making safety-oriented plywood solutions more accessible across residential and commercial applications.According to Greenply, the plywood can withstand up to 72 hours of boiling water immersion without delamination and includes anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-termite and borer-resistant properties. The product also fea..