NGT orders probe into polluting industries in Delhi’s Lal Kuan

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered an investigation into allegations of highly polluting industries operating in the residential areas of Lal Kuan in Delhi. The order was issued on November 28, 2023, following serious allegations of environmental violations.

The NGT has directed the formation of a joint committee to investigate the allegations. The committee will include member secretaries of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), along with representatives of South Delhi’s Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM).

The committee has been tasked with visiting the site to verify the allegations. They are to submit a status and action report to the NGT within two months, along with suggestions for dealing with any violations found.

The allegations pertain to red category polluting units, which are reportedly operating in the residential areas of Gali Kuan Wali, Lal Darwaza, Sirki Walan, and Lal Kuan in Delhi. These units are allegedly involved in the washing and polishing of nuts and bolts using hydrochloric acid, leading to air and water pollution.

Further allegations suggest that these units are illegally exploiting groundwater without any permission, with illegal borewells installed for this purpose. The used hydrochloric acid and other wastes are reportedly being discharged directly into nearby drains or open lands, posing a significant health risk to local residents. There have also been claims of deaths occurring due to these activities over the past three years.

The NGT has stated that the application raises substantial issues relating to the “compliance of the provisions of the schedule Acts”. The tribunal’s decision to form a joint committee underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the need for immediate action to address potential environmental and health hazards.

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