NGT Urges Immediate Action on Illegal Disposal of Electronic Waste
E-waste Recycling | 2019-09-30 23:41:00
The NGT has ordered authorities to file a final compliance report before 12th February, 2020, when the matter will be next heard for further considerations.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered state authorities to take immediate action to put an end to illegal disposal of electronic waste along the banks of River Ram Ganga in Uttar Pradesh.
A plea filed by an activist had drawn NGT’s attention to the environment pollution caused by illegal and unscientific disposal and processing of e-waste, leaving powder residue contaminated with heavy metals including mercury and cadmium at the river banks. The bench chaired by Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel ordered that any dismantling of e-waste must be carried out strictly in accordance with the Hazardous and Other Waste (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016. Further, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is being ordered to circulate the NGT directive to all concerned.
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Earlier, in response to another case, the NGT had imposed a fine on the state government and had ordered remedial measures. However, no substantial action had been taken by authorities, Justice Goel noted. The inspection report of water sample from the river had confirmed excessive levels of mercury and heavy metals such as chromium and copper.
The NGT has ordered authorities to file a final compliance report before 12th February, 2020, when the matter will be next heard for further considerations. The State Chief Secretary has been directed to monitor the steps taken to ensure public health.
