A fresh fire broke out at the Bandhwari waste management site on the Gurugram-Faridabad road, sending thick black smoke over nearby residential sectors and renewing public concern about the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram's (MCG) safety measures. This incident marks another major blaze during a summer already plagued by environmental challenges, adding to a series of recurring fires at the landfill.
Past promises vs. ground reality
Over the past year, authorities announced several interventions to prevent such incidents, including installation of methane gas detectors, continuous temperature-monitoring systems for waste windrows, and surveillance drones with thermal cameras to identify internal hotspots before ignition. Officials also promised round-the-clock patrolling by dedicated engineering teams and on-site firefighting infrastructure, such as dedicated water pipelines and moisture-control systems.
However, investigations by the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) have repeatedly found that many of these systems were either non-functional or inadequate. During a major fire in April 2026, inspectors reported that methane monitoring was effectively inoperative, and mandatory temperature regulation of waste heaps—a key requirement under Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) norms—was not being followed.
Operational challenges and expert concerns
Experts have raised concerns about routine practices like applying bio-culture, noting that under dry conditions it can accelerate microbial decomposition and internal heat generation, thereby increasing fire risk. Officials and experts link the recurring incidents to broader operational challenges at the site. Despite receiving nearly 2,400 metric tonnes of mixed waste daily—exceeding its processing capacity—the landfill continues to face issues with scientific remediation. Leachate treatment plants mandated a year ago remain unimplemented, and sections of the boundary wall are still in disrepair.
Health impact on residents
Residents living near the site have repeatedly reported respiratory discomfort and eye irritation during fire incidents. The recurring blazes have intensified scrutiny of waste management practices at Bandhwari and raised questions over the implementation and effectiveness of the safeguards announced by authorities.
