By promoting recycling and resource efficiency, the revised rules aim to conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a circular economy. Dust pollution from construction and demolition activities remains a significant contributor to air pollution in Delhi-NCR.

In an ambitious move towards environmental sustainability, India has introduced robust measures to tackle the challenges posed by e-waste and dust pollution. The Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, shared details of these initiatives in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

The minister said that the government’s dual focus on e-waste recycling and dust pollution control reflects its commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. He said that while significant progress has been made, continued public cooperation and stringent enforcement will be critical in achieving these ambitious goals.

Revised E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022

To address the burgeoning problem of electronic waste, the Ministry revised the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, and notified the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, which have been in force since April 1, 2023. These rules aim to safeguard public health and the environment from the adverse effects of e-waste.

Key Features of the Revised Rules

1. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):
   1. Manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers are mandated to register on a portal developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
   1. Producers must meet EPR targets outlined in Schedules III and IV through the portal and submit quarterly and annual returns.
2. Formalizing the Sector:
   1. Informal e-waste handlers are being integrated into the formal system.
   1. Provisions for environmental compensation and stakeholder audits have been introduced.
3. Circular Economy:
   1. The rules emphasize recycling, refurbishing, and resource conservation, aligning with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’s objectives of sustainability and waste reduction.
4. Local Bodies’ Role:
   1. Urban and rural bodies are tasked with segregating and channelizing e-waste, especially orphan products, to registered recyclers.
   1. They must set up e-waste collection and disposal systems and conduct training sessions.
5. Public Awareness:
   1. Awareness campaigns through media, publications, and advertisements aim to educate the public about proper e-waste management.

Action Plan Implementation

The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, are being enforced through a comprehensive action plan involving State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs). Key aspects include:

• Mass Awareness: Information, education, and communication plans are being framed by state governments.
• Monitoring Informal Traders: Drives to identify unregistered e-waste handlers are being conducted.
• Stakeholder Integration: Enhanced transparency and auditing through the EPR portal.

Impact and Future Goals

By promoting recycling and resource efficiency, the revised rules aim to conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a circular economy. Efforts are underway to expand the recycling infrastructure and strengthen local capacities for e-waste management.

Dust Pollution Control in Construction and Demolition Activities

Dust pollution from construction and demolition activities remains a significant contributor to air pollution in Delhi-NCR. To combat this, the government has implemented stringent regulations and guidelines.

Regulatory Framework

1. Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016:
   1. Provides guidelines for managing C&D waste effectively.
2. Environment (Protection) Amendment Rules, 2018:
   1. Mandates dust mitigation measures for all construction and demolition projects requiring environmental clearance.
3. CPCB Guidelines:
   1. Detailed protocols for handling C&D materials and deploying anti-smog guns for large projects.
4. CAQM Statutory Directions:
   1. Specifies measures like video fencing, dust screens, and the use of dust suppressants at project sites.
   1. Mandates air quality monitoring and self-audits by project proponents.

Inspection and Enforcement

From January to September 2024, authorities conducted extensive inspections:

• Large Sites (Plot Area ≥ 500 sqm):
  • Delhi inspected 3,829 sites, levying environmental compensation on 103 and ordering 69 closures.
  • Uttar Pradesh inspected 865 sites, imposing fines on 99 and halting work at 39 locations.
• Smaller Sites (Plot Area < 500 sqm):
  • Across Delhi-NCR, over 21,000 inspections were conducted, resulting in fines and partial closures.

Technology-Driven Monitoring

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has introduced an online monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance. Salient features include:

• Mandatory registration of projects on SPCB/DPCC web portals.
• Standardized checklists for dust mitigation measures.
• Video fencing and low-cost air quality sensors for remote monitoring.
• Periodic inspections by SPCBs and DPCC.

Task Forces and Squads

CAQM’s Flying Squads conduct surprise inspections, identifying violations and recommending penalties. An Enforcement Task Force reviews these reports and ensures timely action.

Penalties Imposed

• From January 2024, environmental compensation totaling over Rs. 23.88 crore has been levied against non-compliant projects in Delhi.
• Major violators, including NBCC (India) Ltd. and PWD, GNCTD, have faced hefty fines and work stoppages.