NGT Orders Investigation Into Illegal Single-Use Plastic Units
Authorities Directed to Inspect and Seal Violating Industries in Narela
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued orders for all relevant authorities to inspect, seal, and take action against industries manufacturing banned single-use plastic (SUP) products in the Narela Industrial Area. The directive was issued in response to a 2024 plea by a city-based activist, who alleged that SUP materials were still being produced despite the government’s ban.
Key Directives by NGT
• All concerned authorities must conduct inspections and seal illegal units operating in the region.
• A status report must be submitted within four weeks.
• Officials must ensure no new violations occur.
• Police protection may be provided if needed for enforcement.
Findings From the Initial Investigation
The petition highlighted that several industrial units in Bawana and Narela were engaged in manufacturing banned SUP items. In response:
• The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) provided a list of 35 such units in October 2024.
• A report from the North District Administration on February 24 confirmed that around 30 units in Narela had been inspected.
• Several industries were found violating environmental norms and were subsequently sealed.
Loopholes and Violations Identified
• The report revealed that some factory permissions/licenses were canceled by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) but were later reinstated.
• The North District Magistrate informed DPCC that some earlier closure orders were revoked, allowing certain units to resume operations.
• However, DPCC rejected claims that these units were allowed to function, stating that no instructions had been given to withdraw sealing orders.
Legal Enforcement and Next Steps
The NGT order, dated February 27, stressed the importance of strict enforcement under:
• The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
The tribunal also expressed concerns that some sealed units may have resumed illegal operations. Authorities are now under strict orders to ensure no further production of single-use plastics in the area.
Final Directive from NGT
• A fresh status report must be recorded within four weeks.
• Any unit still engaged in SUP manufacturing must be immediately shut down.
• Legal action will be taken against officials failing to enforce the ban effectively.
This case underscores the challenges in enforcing environmental regulations and highlights the need for stricter monitoring to eliminate single-use plastic production in banned areas.
