India: Ludhiana brick-kiln manufacturers refuse to restart operations

Ludhiana-based brick manufacturers that have shut shops since last three months have refused to restart operations citing reasons of higher coal prices and increased GST on bricks from 5% to 12%. The surge in thermal coal prices in last one year and domestic coal shortage have led to increased power costs. This coupled with sluggish demand has made brick manufacturers in Ludhiana to suspend operations.