MPCB directs brickfields to upgrade operations
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 04 2025: Manipur Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has directed various brickfields operating in the state to use 'zig-zag' technology or vertical shift or use piped natural gas as the main fuel source within one-and-half years.

In a press meet held at its Lamphel DC complex office on Tuesday, MPCB chairman MLA Dr Usham Deben said that in accordance with the instruction of the Central Pollution Control Board, brickfields and stone crushing plants must upgrade machinery and modernise operations in tune with contemporary needs.

Specifically, brickfields must implement zig-zag technology or vertical shifts and use piped natural gas within the next one-and-half years, he reiterated.

MPCB chairman MLA Dr Usham Deben

The chairman further informed that brickfields should maintain a distance of one kilometre from one another and 800 metres from residential areas, adding that inspections/ drives would be conducted to ensure compliance with these regulations.

"Should any nearby residents lodge complaints against a brickfield, the MPCB may cancel the no objection certificate issued to that firm," Dr Deben forewarned.

He, however, conceded that as a brickfield cannot be closed instantly and indefinitely, it could be relocated to another suitable location after discussion between the brickfield owner and the locals.

"If the owners want to obtain any further information on the matter, they can visit the MPCB office," he informed, while urging the public to extend their support to the works taken up by the Board.

Similarly, Dr Usham Deben also urged stone crushing plants to follow prescribed guidelines which include installation of GI sheets/MS sheets/brick walls around the plant/crusher.

"The height of the walls should be three feet more than the stone crushing machinery and trees planted in three rows.

A water spraying system must be installed to control the dust," he explained, adding that owners can contact the Board for any additional details.

Stating that medical institutions should have effluent treatment plant (ETP), he, however, conceded that 28 ETPs installed at government-run medical institutions are lying defunct and the Board would address this shortly.

At the same time, the Board chairman informed that as many as 22 private health centres do not have the required ETPs and as such, show cause notices have been sent to them.

"If the centres do not follow the orders, appropriate actions will be taken up," he conveyed, while also urging those involved in tyre retread and bakeries to obtain the mandatory pollution certificates from the Board.

Meanwhile, the drive against single use plastics will continue, he informed, while urging all to help Manipur become a pollution-free state.