High zigzag cost forces kilns’ closure

Despite two years of efforts, the Environment Protection Department has failed to get environment-friendly zigzag technology installed the kilns of Rawalpindi district.

The number of kilns has decreased due to the high costs of the new zigzag technology, new taxes, and the creation of a garbage dumping ground in the Losar area for Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Sources said that Rawalpindi had around 200 kilns three years ago, but now only 120 remain. The allocation of another 600 kanals of land for Islamabad's garbage dumping ground in Losar may lead to the closure of 10 more kilns, which have already reduced production and are on the verge of shutting down.

Arshad Khan, leader of the Brick Kiln Association, stated that zigzag technology is prohibitively expensive for small kiln owners, who cannot afford the Rs2.5 to Rs3 million required for installation. He suggested that the government either allow traditional methods with no toxic smoke or provide loans in easy instalments to help small kiln owners adopt zigzag technology.

The Punjab government has declared zero tolerance for non-compliance and mandated the installation of zigzag technology in all brick kilns before the smog season. Strict instructions have been issued to seal and demolish any kiln that fails to comply.

Additionally, the government plans to establish smog coordination units in every institution and district anti-smog committees in every district from July 1 to August 14.