The Supreme Court of India has voiced deep concern over the staggering amount of untreated solid waste accumulating in the national capital, Delhi.
With an alarming 3,800 tonnes of solid waste going untreated each day, the apex court highlighted the significant threat this poses to the fundamental right of citizens to a pollution-free environment under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Describing the situation as “horrible,” a bench comprising Justices AS Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasised the urgent need for immediate action to prevent further exacerbation of the waste crisis until adequate treatment facilities are established. The court stressed that addressing the issue of untreated solid waste is not only a matter of public health but also a vital concern for the capital’s environmental well-being, transcending political considerations. Expressing apprehension about the implications of unchecked waste generation, Justice Oka remarked on the potential repercussions for Delhi’s environmental landscape, questioning what the future holds if current trends persist. Acknowledging the inevitable increase in solid waste due to ongoing development activities, the court underscored the imperative for proactive measures to mitigate the environmental impact.
In response to the gravity of the situation, the Supreme Court directed the secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to convene a meeting of all relevant authorities to devise effective solutions. The court warned of the possibility of imposing drastic measures should the authorities fail to present concrete proposals to address the waste management crisis. The apex court mandated the submission of a comprehensive report by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs by July 19, with further proceedings scheduled for July 26. Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, the bench urged all concerned authorities to prioritise the issue and recognise the urgent need for robust waste management infrastructure.
Highlighting the critical shortfall in waste treatment capacity, the court reiterated the need for immediate action to address the existing gap between waste generation and treatment capabilities. With an admitted daily generation of 3,800 tonnes of solid waste within the MCD limits alone, the court emphasised the inadequacy of existing treatment facilities to manage the escalating waste crisis effectively. In light of the alarming revelations regarding untreated waste, the Supreme Court’s proactive stance underscores the pressing need for coordinated efforts to tackle Delhi’s waste management challenges and safeguard the environment for future generations.
