Kulgam Brick Kiln Owners Seek LG’s Intervention as Workers Fear Job Losses | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR:  Brick kiln owners in Kulgam have sought the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, urging waiver of environmental penalties, extension of operational consents and consideration of their units under the 2008/2009 siting guidelines, warning that delays could threaten the livelihood of thousands of workers.

Brick kiln owners of Kulgam district have approached His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, seeking urgent intervention for waiver of environmental compensation, extension of consent to operate and review of siting norms, warning that continued delays could severely impact thousands of workers and their families.

In a detailed representation submitted to the Lieutenant Governor, the brick kiln owners stated that they have complied with pollution control norms since 2014 and installed zig-zag technology, besides depositing all requisite fees, yet the consents have not been issued so far.

A letter submitted to the Lieutenant Governor reads: “We, the brick kiln owners of Kulgam district, come to you with respect and hope. We have followed all pollution rules since 2014. We installed zig-zag technology and paid all fees, but the consents have not yet been provided. Tough conditions like bad weather, security issues and low selling prices set by the government have stopped our work. Our season is only 2–3 months, which has hurt us badly. Families and workers need your help.”

“We kindly request waiver of environmental compensation, extension of consent to operate, consideration of these kilns under the 2008/2009 siting guidelines, and urgent steps to save jobs. A timely decision will protect families and reduce job losses. We assure full compliance with all JKPCC rules,” the letter added.

Reacting to the situation, brick kiln workers said uncertainty over kiln operations has pushed thousands of labourers to the brink of unemployment. “If the kilns are shut, our families will suffer badly. This is our only source of livelihood,” said a kiln worker.

Another labourer said, “Thousands of workers depend on these kilns. The government should give time and relaxation within the rules so people can earn and survive.”

Arshid Ahmad, a worker, added, “The government should help create employment, not take it away. We want work, not relief.” He further added that the Pollution Control Board must withdraw the closure order.

The workers appealed to the administration, including the Lieutenant Governor and the ruling National Conference government, to take a humanitarian and practical approach to prevent large-scale job losses in the district. (KNC)