NGT Directs DPCC to Enforce Closure of Illegal Scrap Dealers in Delhi

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to enforce its directives against illegally operating scrap dealers in Delhi. The NGT responded to a plea highlighting health hazards caused by these dealers in Trilokpuri and nearby areas, urging prompt compliance and continuous monitoring.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to comply with its orders aimed at shutting down illegally operating scrap dealers in specific areas of the national capital.

The NGT was addressing a plea that cited health hazards caused by unauthorized dealers in Trilokpuri and neighboring areas. These unauthorized operations result in air and noise pollution and scatter scrap materials like iron, broken plastic, rubber, tyres, and fiber sheets, potentially leading to harmful diseases. A bench chaired by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava took note of the submissions from the applicant's counsel, highlighting that scrap shops in the area only ceased operations temporarily during inspections.

“Once the tribunal has examined the issue and issued requisite direction (about the closure of illegal scrap shops), the DPCC is required to ensure compliance with the order,” stated the bench, which also included judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member A Senthil Vel, in its recent order.

The NGT permitted the applicant to approach the DPCC member secretary with a detailed representation and copies of previous tribunal orders. “The Member Secretary, DPCC on receiving the comprehensive application, will act in accordance with the tribunal's earlier order as expeditiously as possible, preferably within two months. Continuous monitoring, if necessary, should also be carried out,” the tribunal noted.