Tripura’s brick manufacturing sector is confronting a serious crisis after coal shipments from neighboring Meghalaya and other sources abruptly stopped over the past 15 days, leaving kiln owners struggling to sustain production.

Vivekananda Choudhury, President of the Tripura Brick Kiln Association, highlighted that the industry relies heavily on coal, and there is currently no alternative plan to transport coal into the state by rail. “Not a single coal-laden truck has entered Tripura in the last two weeks,” he said during a meeting with kiln owners from across the state.

With coal reserves dwindling rapidly, several brick kilns have already ceased operations, while others are managing only with their remaining stock. “If alternate supply routes are not arranged, within a week, no brick kiln in Tripura will be operational,” Choudhury warned.

Tripura is home to roughly 300 brick kiln units, which are a major source of employment and essential construction materials in the region. The industry is also grappling with labor shortages, as many workers from Bihar—who form a significant part of the workforce—have not returned, compounding the production challenges.

Financial pressure on kiln owners is intensifying as sales decline and coal prices remain high, leaving little room for profit even before the current disruption. The Tripura Brick Kiln Association has urged the state government to intervene, either by facilitating alternative coal supply channels or providing support to prevent widespread shutdowns and financial losses in the sector.