Short Description
The Supreme Court’s stern warning to the MCD over trash management reveals a dire need for effective waste disposal solutions in Delhi.
Read Time
3 minutes 45 seconds
Main Article
In a significant development that casts a shadow over Delhi’s solid waste management efforts, the Supreme Court has reprimanded the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) for its inadequate handling of the city’s escalating trash crisis. Currently, a staggering 3,000 tonnes of waste is dumped untreated each day, a situation that has prompted calls for immediate action from the central government. The bench, comprised of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, expressed its frustration at MCD’s claim that the notorious Ghazipur dumpsite would remain operational until December 2028 for clearance. This alarming timeline sheds light on the systemic failures plaguing waste management in one of the world’s most populous cities.
Representing the MCD, senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy provided updates on the ongoing bio-mining efforts at various sites, including Bhalswa and Ghazipur. It appears that although progress is being made—71.7 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste have been successfully processed—delays remain a pressing concern. The court’s inquiry into the Union government’s role brought to the forefront the necessity for cohesive action between various levels of government to tackle this growing problem. The alarming statistic that only 8,000 tonnes of the 11,000 tonnes of solid waste generated daily is adequately processed not only highlights inefficient strategies but also indicates a clear violation of the solid waste management law enacted in 2016.
The Supreme Court hinted at possible drastic actions, including a ban on construction activities in the city if the current situation does not improve. This warning underscores the urgency of solid waste management, as the risks associated with failing infrastructure could significantly impact public health and safety. Further, the court has emphasized the need for the central government to engage actively and constructively in finding solutions, illustrating that collaboration is paramount in addressing the pollution crisis in the national capital.
While the MCD continues to face scrutiny, the court’s involvement could serve as a catalyst for necessary reforms. President of the Council of Urban Development, Aishwarya Bhati, assured the bench that the Ministry of Urban Development would be consulted to facilitate a more robust framework for waste management.
Short Summary
The Supreme Court’s reprimand of the MCD highlights a critical waste management failure in Delhi, revealing significant delays and the need for urgent government collaboration. Effective action and timely reforms are essential to address the city’s solid waste crisis and protect public health. The court’s potential restrictions on construction activities serve as a stark reminder of the gravity of the situation.
