NGT asks collector to shut brick kiln

In yet another order that has taken on illegal sand mining, the National Green Tribunal on Monday directed the Salem Collector to prevent the functioning of illegal brick kilns and excavation of sand in Eddapadi Taluk in the district.

The order of interim injunction was passed on a petition filed by one A Selvaraj. In his petition, he alleged that a number of illegal brick kilns in areas such as Adaiyur and Pakkanadu have exploited sand to produce bricks. The units themselves have functioned without permission for years.

The constant sand mining using lorries have had a detrimental effect on the environment and the water table apart from affecting agriculture. Passing the orders, the bench directed the respondents, including the collector, to file replies in the matter by October 22.