Asika: Several illegal brick kilns have been operating unchecked in Asika and its surrounding areas despite repeated warnings from the Asika Tehsil Office. However, kiln owners continued their operations without heeding the notices.
Today, in a pre-planned operation, Asika Tehsildar Sangeeta Sen, along with Asika Police Team led by ASI Subhashis Swain and the Fire Department, conducted a raid on three illegal brick kilns in Alipur area. The kilns, which had been operating without proper permits and evading taxes, were demolished.
Authorities destroyed the raw bricks and collected fines totaling over ₹2 lakh from the kiln owners. The Asika Tehsil Office has confirmed that more such raids will follow.
This marks the second phase of demolitions in Asika, as the administration intensifies its crackdown on illegal brick kilns built on agricultural land. These unregulated kilns contribute to environmental pollution and operate without necessary approvals despite repeated notices from the authorities.
It was also observed that large quantities of illegally stored sand and clay were found at the sites. Additionally, reports suggest that many women and children were employed in these kilns under poor working conditions.
The operation was widely praised by locals, who appreciated the administration’s action against environmental violations. However, concerns remain about the rapid increase in illegal brick kilns in other regions, such as Dharakote Tehsil under Bhanjanagar Subdivision, where such activities continue unchecked.
During the raid, key officials present included Revenue Supervisor Sunil Maharana, Revenue Officer Prafula Bhuya, and others. Locals now hope for stricter enforcement against illegal brick kilns across Ganjam district.
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