A labourer throws mud on bricks kept for drying at a kiln. PHOTO: REUTERS
However, brick kilns which have installed environment-friendly ‘zig-zag’ technology to reduce emissions have been exempt from the shutdown.
The notices have been issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the directions of the Punjab government to control annual smog spell which has made breathing difficult in other parts of the province.
The notices have directed 400 brick kilns in the city to close down from November 15 to December 31.
Environmentalists believe that thick plumes of smoke rising from these kilns can cause cancer and tuberculosis, while the owners of these brick kilns have refused to install modern technology which reduces emissions despite receiving several red notices.
In this regard, the EPA has decided to launch a crackdown against all such brick kilns which have failed to install zig-zag technology in their chimneys starting next year. Any kiln found without the requisite technology will be sealed.
As per the order of the Supreme Court, it is mandatory to install environment-friendly technology in all brick kilns.
EPA Deputy Director Amin Baig told The Express Tribune that the new technology is environment-friendly which converts poisonous smog into white, non-poisonous smoke and cuts pollution. Moreover, it helps reduce the amount of fuel used in the furnaces of brick kilns.
Baig conceded that the technology is expensive but argued that it is extremely beneficial for the environment while it also complies with orders of the apex court.
He added that owners of the kilns have a chance to install environment-friendly technology during smog season till January 1.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 6th, 2019.
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