Most Brick Kilns in Chitwan Remain Shut Following COVID-19 Pandemic

Chitwan. Sixteen brick industries in the district that were shut down due to the COVID pandemic have still not resumed operations. Only two of the industries closed due to COVID have become operational.

According to Narayan Sapkota, Chairman of the Chitwan Brick Industry Association, only two industries closed after COVID have resumed operation. The Navadurga Brick Industry located in Pithuwa, Ratnanagar, and the Anmol Brick Industry located in Chainpur, Rapti, have resumed operations.

It is stated that commercial brick production in the district began around the year 2040 BS. He said, "At one time, there were up to 40 brick industries in the district." Among the industries closed after COVID, Navadurga resumed operation last year, and Anmol resumed this year.

According to Chairman Sapkota, the industries were shut down due to unhealthy competition from bricks coming from the east, and shortages of soil, coal, and manpower. He said, "Many of the remaining industries have vacated the rented land after leveling it. Some sold the land to repay loans. Now the industries will not open." Currently, physical infrastructure construction works are being carried out relying on bricks coming from the east.