Supreme Court Criticizes Delhi’s Waste Management, Calls For Apolitical Action

Waste Management: The Supreme Court has rebuked Municipal Corporation officials for their failure to adequately dispose of solid waste in Delhi, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing the issue without political interference. Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjwal Bhuyan expressed dismay over the improper disposal of solid waste, highlighting previous estimates indicating that 3,000 tonnes out of 11,000 tonnes generated daily in Delhi were not being managed in accordance with the law.

During the proceedings, Justice Abhay Oka questioned the message being sent to the world regarding India’s commitment to environmental stewardship and development. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta concurred with the Court’s sentiments, stressing the need to transcend political considerations in resolving the matter. The Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Municipal Corporation’s inability to provide satisfactory responses and urged the central government to intervene.

In a previous hearing, the Supreme Court had issued notices to the Delhi Municipal Corporation, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Cantonment Board, highlighting the severity of the issue. The Court underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that 3,000 tonnes of untreated solid waste accumulate in the national capital daily.

The Court reiterated the significance of addressing the processing of municipal solid waste for Delhi’s environmental and public health. It recommended that the Central Government convene a meeting to devise strategies for managing waste effectively and preventing further escalation of the problem. The Court’s remarks were made in the context of reviewing a report by the Air Quality Management Commission on pollution in the National Capital Region and surrounding areas, emphasizing the urgency of action to mitigate environmental hazards.

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