Brick factories in NCR flouting CAQM’s coal ban: CSE report
Brick Factories in NCR Ignoring CAQM’s Coal Ban: CSE Report
Brick factories in NCR flouting CAQM - A new study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) reveals that brick kilns in the National Capital Region (NCR) are frequently bypassing the Commission for Air Quality Management’s (CAQM) coal restriction. The findings also highlight the presence of carbon black at multiple sites, along with structural shortcomings in kiln designs.
Survey Findings Across Key Districts
The report, titled “Rules Without Reach: How the Brick-Making Industry Has Fared on CAQM Compliances in Delhi-NCR,” was released on Friday. Based on two rounds of on-site investigations conducted by the CSE, it assessed 128 kilns in 2025 and 152 in 2026 across Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Shamli, Jhajjar, Panipat, and Sonipat.
Design Flaws and Fuel Inefficiencies
Although the CAQM requires all kilns to switch from traditional fixed chimney bull’s trench kilns to eco-friendly zig-zag technology, the transition remains incomplete. Structural integrity issues were identified in 70% of evaluated kilns, with cracks, damaged walls, or subpar plastering. The study emphasized that in zig-zag kilns, such defects allow cold air to escape, increasing fuel use and reducing efficiency. It noted that under normal conditions, about 50% of the kiln’s heat is already lost through surfaces.
Carbon Black and Trench Expansion
Survey teams discovered black bags at several kilns, which workers identified as carbon black. This material, used as a filler and conductor in plastics, coatings, and elastomers, was reportedly being burned as fuel during nighttime hours. Additionally, the report found that many kiln operators unilaterally expanded their trench widths beyond the limits specified in their Consent to Operate (CTO) documents.
In Uttar Pradesh, where kilns are typically licensed to produce 20,000 to 25,000 bricks daily, the standard trench width is 20 to 25 feet. However, some kilns exceeded this by doubling the size, reaching 40 to 50 feet. These changes were made without notifying state pollution control boards, leading to higher fuel consumption and output.
Environmental Impact and Recommendations
The report also pointed to the lack of green cover around brick kilns, which is meant to act as a natural buffer. In 2025, about 82% of surveyed sites had no such vegetation, and this figure climbed to 78% in 2026.
According to a 2016-17 study by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), brick kilns contribute an average of 8% to regional PM2.5 emissions during winter months.
“The brick industry is one of the most polluting and under-regulated sectors in the country. While the CAQM coal ban was a critical step, it lacked a clear strategy for implementation. Without technical guidance, financial aid, and institutional support, compliance remains a challenge. The survey underscores this gap,” said Subhrajit Goswami, a programme officer at CSE.
The CSE has called for measures including technical support to aid fuel transition, stricter monitoring to block coal supply to NCR kilns, standardized biomass fuel quality, and improved coordination between regulators and technical bodies to ensure adherence to regulations.