📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Suyash Dwivedi
Health
NGT orders probe into toxic e-waste burning in Bhopal, report due in 4 weeks
✍️ Amar Ujala · Bhopal
🗓 31 Aug 2026, 06:38 PM
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The National Green Tribunal has set up a committee to investigate open‑air burning of mobile phones and computers in Bhopal, demanding a report within four weeks ahead of the Oct 1 hearing.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken a strict stance on allegations that e‑waste is being disposed of without scientific methods in Bhopal, with reports of mobile phones and computers being burnt in the open, releasing lead and other hazardous substances.
To assess the environmental and public‑health impact, the tribunal has constituted a fact‑finding committee and instructed it to submit its findings within four weeks. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for 1 October.
Officials from the state pollution control board have been asked to provide data on the volume of e‑waste generated and the sites where burning is reported. The committee will also examine compliance with existing e‑waste management rules.
If the investigation confirms the release of toxic metals such as lead, the NGT may direct remedial actions, including cessation of open burning, safe collection, and proper recycling of electronic waste.
The move underscores growing concerns across India about informal e‑waste processing, which often bypasses mandated recycling channels and poses risks to air quality and community health.
To assess the environmental and public‑health impact, the tribunal has constituted a fact‑finding committee and instructed it to submit its findings within four weeks. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for 1 October.
Officials from the state pollution control board have been asked to provide data on the volume of e‑waste generated and the sites where burning is reported. The committee will also examine compliance with existing e‑waste management rules.
If the investigation confirms the release of toxic metals such as lead, the NGT may direct remedial actions, including cessation of open burning, safe collection, and proper recycling of electronic waste.
The move underscores growing concerns across India about informal e‑waste processing, which often bypasses mandated recycling channels and poses risks to air quality and community health.