A
What happened
In a recent report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlighted significant failures at the Bidadi Waste-to-Energy (WTE) plant in Karnataka. The report states that the plant has not monitored toxic pollutants such as Dioxins and Furans, and has released leachate without proper testing. Additionally, the plant has not obtained necessary authorizations under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. Approximately 200 tonnes of hazardous ash are dumped daily without testing, and the facility is processing waste with over 40% moisture content, indicating a lack of proper waste segregation. Environmental activists have criticized the plant as a 'false climate solution' and called for an immediate halt to similar projects. The CPCB has issued a show-cause notice to the plant operator, warning of potential further action.
★
Key insights
-
1
Toxic Pollutants Ignored
The plant failed to monitor hazardous pollutants, risking public health.
-
2
Legal Non-Compliance
The facility lacks necessary authorizations under waste management laws.
-
3
Environmental Activism
Activists demand a halt to incineration projects due to health risks.
Takeaways
The findings from the CPCB report underscore the urgent need for regulatory compliance and better waste management practices to protect public health and the environment.