AGARTALA, August 15 (TIWN):A total of 120 complaint was filed in Tripura State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) during last three financial years ( 2012 -13,2013 -14, 2014 -15), admitted minister for science, technology and environment Bijita nath in assembly recently. Replying to a question raised by ruling CPI(M) MLA Sameer Deb Sarkar she stated 42 in 2012 -13, 34 in 2013 -14 and 44 complaint was lodged.

Investigation was conducted on 90 cases of the total 120 complaint lodged by TSPCB, five person was showcaused and three factories was closed down.The board conducted raid at ninety places,no one was jailed or fined, stated Nath. 

A good number of brick kilns have come up in  the state . With some of these kilns located close to habitats , many concerns have been raised over the pollution emanating from them.

Officials say that the brick kilns should not be located close to water sources, roads, hospitals, schools and human habitations as per the GO 80 issued by the Government on April 22, 2010. However, this has been violated in many instances with the kiln owners preferring their own convenience.

At Jirania sub division the brick kilns came up within 300 metres radius of the village in violation of the guideline which stipulates a minimum distance of 1 kilometre from all kinds of human habitations. The smoke and dust emanating from the kilns often form clouds over the NH -44 road, making it difficult for the vehicle owners passing on the road.

The GO 80 will be strictly implemented as it has clearly laid down specific guidelines like the edges of a kiln should not be within 1 km of a hospital, school, village and any such human habitation. Also, a kiln should not be within 50 metres radius of agricultural and horticultural lands. A minimum distance of 200 meters should be left in case of roads.