The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been informed about severe environmental violations in a specific area of Delhi, involving the illegal disposal of garbage and construction material. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) submitted a detailed report to the green court after conducting a field inspection.
Inspection Uncovers Environmental Menace
The investigation was triggered by a complaint from a resident of Ghevra village in the Mundka area, who raised alarms about rampant dumping and open burning of waste. Following the NGT's directive in May to various agencies, the DPCC took action. On October 29, its officials visited the site along the Mundka stretch situated between the Delhi-Rohtak Road and the Delhi-Rohtak railway line, near the DMRC depot.
What they discovered was a scene of neglect. On public land, there was open dumping of household garbage, plastic wrappers, and carry bags. Furthermore, officials found large piles of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, including broken bricks, tiles, and soil, discarded in the open.
Open Burning Adds to Air Pollution Crisis
More disturbing than the dumping were the active instances of waste burning at the site, a practice that directly contributes to Delhi's toxic air quality. The DPCC report specifically noted that a ragpicker was seen burning waste, who then fled upon noticing the officials. In another spot, mixed municipal waste, which included electrical wires, was found burning in the open. The DPCC team had to step in and douse the flames themselves.
Official Action and Ongoing Hearing
In response to these findings, the DPCC has written to the Deputy Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) Narela zone. The committee has directed the civic body to take immediate and necessary steps to stop the illegal dumping and burning of waste in the area. The matter remains under active consideration by the NGT, as the case filed by the local resident continues to be heard.
This incident highlights the persistent challenges in waste management on the outskirts of the national capital, where illegal dumping and burning pose a dual threat to both land and air. The DPCC's action-taken report underscores the need for stricter surveillance and enforcement to protect public land and health.
