The Supreme Court on Thursday raised concerns about the growing solid waste problem in Delhi, asking the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to clarify their compliance with the 2016 rules for waste management.
A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih was addressing the matter as part of the ongoing case on Delhi’s air pollution and related challenges.
The Supreme Court recently focused on the issue of solid waste mismanagement in Delhi during hearings on the ongoing case. On Thursday, the Court questioned the Delhi government and the MCD about their adherence to the timelines set under the 2016 Solid Waste Management Rules.
Justice Abhay S. Oka highlighted concerns over untreated waste, stating, “Currently, 3,000 metric tonnes of waste remain untreated in the MCD area, and by 2027, this will rise to 6,000 metric tonnes. Mr. Chief Secretary, please submit an affidavit, providing an honest account of which timelines in the rules have been followed and which have not.
The Court directed the Delhi government to submit a more comprehensive affidavit, including details of actions taken to prevent fires caused by illegal garbage dumping, particularly in areas like Ghazipur and Bhalswa.
Expressing disappointment, the Court noted, “It is disheartening to record that the capital city generates 3,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, which cannot be treated, leading to illegal dumping.”
The Court also hinted at the possibility of halting certain development activities to manage and reduce solid waste generation.
During the hearing, a dispute arose between the counsel for the MCD and the Amicus Curiae regarding the adequacy of efforts to address Delhi’s waste crisis.
Representing the MCD, Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy stated, “Our plants for resolving this issue are tied up in litigation before the Justice Gavai-led bench.”
In response, Amicus Curiae Archana Dave criticized the lack of progress, remarking, “If their intentions are genuine, they should explain how many times they filed early applications. On July 21, their affidavit reported 3,800 metric tonnes of waste. The current affidavit reflects the same figure—3,800 metric tonnes. They have done absolutely nothing; there’s no change.
Guruswamy objected to Dave’s remarks, deeming them unfair.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Court stated, “The capital city is facing a dire crisis. Heated arguments in court will not resolve the issue,” and urged the Delhi government to take corrective action.
The Court expressed particular concern over the 3,800 tonnes of untreated waste being dumped daily at Ghazipur and Bhalswa, emphasizing the need for measures to prevent fires at these sites. It further expressed hope that the authorities would address the issue with genuine commitment and urgency.
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The Court specified that the Delhi government must submit its affidavit by January 27.
In the same case, the Court is also examining other issues, such as steps to reduce stubble burning and imposing restrictions on firecracker use. Previously, it had suggested that the Delhi government consider enforcing a permanent firecracker ban in the capital.
