NGT directs CPCB to submit report on use of waste tyres in factories

NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to submit a report pertaining to the remedial measures required against the usage of waste tyres by illegal pyrolysis industries. The directions came post a plea seeking a ban on illegal pyrolysis industries that use waste tyres as raw material for the production of fuel oil.

A bench headed by Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, NGT chairperson said, “Before we consider the matter, it appears necessary to obtain a report from the CPCB about the status of compliance of rules on the subject and remedial measures required, within three months. The CPCB may compile information on the subject from the relevant quarters.”

Social Action for Forest and Environment (SAFE) moved the plea contending the use of waste tyres by the pyrolysis industries across the country. The plea said that the usage of waste tyres in the industry will lead to emission of toxic pollutants that affect public health adversely.

The plea further said that the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the CPCB and the State pollution control boards in consultation with other scientific agencies should develop a monitoring mechanism to ensure that waste tyres imported in the country are verified through scientific measures and through a robust monitoring framework.

The plea also sought directions to concerned agencies to ensure proper implementation of the provisions mentioned under the Hazardous Waste Rules, 2016 which state that it is “mandatory for the occupiers or actual users to maintain records of hazardous and other wastes”.