Auction Of Hazardous Wastes Ordered

A high-power commission appointed by the Supreme Court has recommended the auctioning of the zinc ash, waste oil and batteries lying in various ports in the country to firms which fulfil certain conditions.

The commission on management of hazardous wastes, headed by M G K Menon, was set up following a petition by the Research Foundation for Science alleging that hazardous wastes were being imported from scientifically advanced countries and distributed to small firms for recycling. However, these units do not have the know how or equipment for the purpose. As a result, the people around these thousands of units dotted all over the country are facing serious health risks.

 

In its interim report to the court submitted this week after examining the chemical substances lying at various ports, it suggested that they wastes could be auctioned to those firms which had valid authorisation from the respective state pollution control boards for handling wastes under the Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules 1989. They must also hold consent letters from the pollution control boards under the Air and Water Acts. It should also be made sure that the firms have environment friendly technology for recycling and proper waste disposal facilities.