A massive landfill containing nearly 300,000 metric tonnes of legacy waste near Ghalori Gate has become a major source of concern for residents and visitors to the city’s largest cremation ground. Complaints of foul smell, environmental hazards, and health risks have been mounting.
Landfill Adjacent to Cremation Ground
The landfill, comprising largely unprocessed municipal waste, is located adjacent to the cremation ground, making it difficult for families to perform last rites. Visitors and workers at the cremation ground have reported experiencing nausea, dizziness, and severe discomfort due to the stench emanating from the landfill.
PPCB Imposes Environmental Compensation
The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has taken strict action against the Municipal Corporation (MC) for violations of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. Environmental Engineer Navtesh Singla stated that the PPCB issued a notice under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and imposed an environmental compensation of Rs 55 lakh. The MC has deposited the amount, which will be used to develop a green corridor around the landfill to prevent waste spread and mitigate environmental impacts.
National Green Tribunal Takes Cognizance
The issue reached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) after a complaint by Bal Krishna Singla, President of Sanatan Dharam Sabha. The matter is scheduled for hearing in August. In an interim order, the NGT constituted a joint committee comprising representatives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), PPCB, and the District Magistrate, Patiala, to inspect the site and submit a report.
Inspection Reveals Serious Violations
During inspection, the committee found garbage mounds over 20 feet high along one side of the cremation ground. Workers informed the team that the foul odour intensifies when the wind blows towards the cremation ground, causing serious inconvenience during ceremonies.
The committee’s report highlighted several environmental violations:
- Leachate from the waste dump was flowing towards the cremation ground, damaging trees and vegetation.
- Leachate was observed near the cremation ground, raising concerns about increased runoff during the monsoon and potential threats to public health.
- No leachate collection and treatment system was present at the site.
- No catch pits or drainage arrangements had been installed to manage leachate.
- Significant accumulation of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) and its fractions was found at the site.
- No green belt or buffer zone existed between the landfill and the cremation ground, despite its importance in controlling odour and preventing leachate movement.
Recommended Remedial Measures
The committee has recommended immediate remedial actions, including:
- Expediting bioremediation of legacy waste.
- Installing a proper leachate collection and treatment system.
- Constructing catch-pit drains around the landfill.
- Developing a dense green belt near the cremation ground.
- Removing waste dumped close to the cremation area.
- Preparing a scientific disposal plan for RDF waste.
The civic body is expected to comply with these recommendations to alleviate the suffering of residents and ensure environmentally sound waste management.
