The Delhi government has taken a major step towards sustainable waste management by approving the establishment of the capital's first dedicated e-waste park. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, marking a significant move to formalize and clean up the city's electronic waste processing.
A State-of-the-Art Facility for a Growing Problem
The park will be built on an 11.5-acre plot in Holambi Kalan, located in northwest Delhi. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that this will be India's first state-of-the-art facility of its kind. It is designed to operate on a 100% circular, zero-waste model, ensuring full compliance with environmental norms to prevent air and water pollution.
Delhi faces a massive e-waste challenge, generating approximately 200,000 tonnes annually. Currently, a large portion of this waste is handled by the informal sector, often ending up in landfills, garbage dumps, or unregulated private units where dismantling and recycling violate safety and environmental standards.
Features and Global Standards
Officials confirmed that the BJP-led government will develop the park following stringent European environmental standards. The facility will incorporate advanced technology to ensure no pollution, radiation, or environmental damage.
Key features include:
- An advanced water recirculation mechanism for complete water recycling and reuse.
- Concretised flooring and in-house water purification systems.
- Advanced scrubber systems to control emissions.
- Global best practices for waste segregation, including recovery of aluminium, iron, and refuse-derived fuel to drive a circular economy.
The project was initially announced in April 2021 during the AAP government's tenure. A site was identified in 2023, but progress stalled due to the change in government. The recent approval aims to end the city's heavy reliance on informal and unsafe recycling practices.
Broader Pollution Control Measures
In the same meeting, the cabinet also mandated the installation of mist systems, or anti-smog guns, on high-rise and large commercial buildings for pollution control. The order applies to commercial, institutional, hospitality, and office buildings that are G+5 or higher with a built-up area exceeding 3,000 square meters.
Furthermore, the cabinet approved an allocation of Rs 100 crore for rejuvenating waterbodies under the Delhi government's domain. Out of approximately 1,000 waterbodies in the capital, 160 are managed by the state government. This initiative, for which the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) had earlier provided Rs 19 crore, is seen as crucial for pollution control. The chief minister has directed officials to ensure the work is completed within the year.
Minister Sirsa emphasized that these moves are aimed at strengthening Delhi's fight against pollution, improving environmental governance, and creating a more sustainable urban environment. Tenders for the e-waste park project are expected to be floated shortly.
