NGT forms special task force to tackle illegal scrap business in Mayapuri

The illegal scrap business, which amounts to Rs 6,000 crore per annum, at Mayapuri here has come under the radar of the National Green Tribunal which has constituted a seven-member Special Task Force (STF) to take action against the units involved in dismantling of heavy vehicles.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said the STF will comprise representatives of Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (DSIIDC), South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), District Magistrate and DCP.

The green panel said that DM of West zone will be the nodal officer to coordinate and initiate steps.

"Proceedings have been initiated in view of the news item to the effect that there is scrap business at Mayapuri, Delhi, worth Rs 6,000 crores per annum. The activities of the said business spew toxic fumes and chemicals and oils are also emitted. Such toxic fumes create severe air pollution affecting public health...

"The STF may forthwith take steps for stopping illegal activities and initiate proceedings against those identified being involved in contributing to pollution. The STF will report to the Chief Secretary of Delhi. The Chief Secretary of Delhi may monitor the working of the STF at least once a month," the bench said.

The tribunal directed the Delhi Chief Secretary to furnish a report by email about the steps taken, on or before December 31, and would be considered by it on January 28 next year.

The NGT ordered came after taking note of an English newspaper report about the scrap business at Mayapuri.

The news item shows that DDA, DPCC and DSIIDC and the SDMC have failed to take necessary steps of stopping illegal industrial activity resulting in toxic fumes.

The illegal activities comprise dismantling equipment, burning of toxic industrial waste, use of gas and electric cutting of vehicles, the report said.

The NGT had earlier injuncted units working in Mayapuri from carrying on such activities without taking clearance from DPCC and authorisation from competent authority for dealing with hazardous waste.