High Court’s stern warning

The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh has issued a stern warning to the government regarding the filling of a status report on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016. Non-compliance could lead to the imposition of a fine of Rs 50,000. This directive emerged from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by the NGO Environmental Policy Group (APG), highlighting the pressing need for effective waste management measures in the region. Despite multiple opportunities granted by the court, the government is yet to take an action, demonstrating a significant lapse in addressing this critical issue. The SWM Rules, 2016, cover a comprehensive range of areas and stakeholders, including industrial townships, airports, defense establishments, among many others. Key responsibilities are assigned to different ministries and local authorities for effective implementation and monitoring of these rules.

The High Court’s intervention comes at a time when the ecological and health implications of poor waste management are becoming increasingly apparent. Unscientific dumping and improper treatment of solid and biomedical waste pose serious risks to the environment, and most importantly public health. Unregulated waste disposal has led to an increase in the number of open dumpsites across J&K, which are breeding grounds for disease-carrying organisms. Despite regulations being in place, the implementation has not been strict. There is a need for investment in waste collection, segregation, and processing facilities to ensure that waste is managed sustainably.

Organizing frequent public awareness campaigns is also crucial to educate citizens about the importance of solid waste management and the risks associated with improper waste disposal. While the government must promptly abide by the High Court’s order and take decisive steps to address this critical issue, it requires a collective action. Citizens must practice proper waste disposal at the household level, while businesses should adopt sustainable practices by reducing packaging waste, implementing recycling programs, and proper disposing of industrial waste. Community groups and NGOs can also support these efforts by organizing awareness campaigns, workshops, and clean-up drives to educate people about the importance of proper waste management. Now is the high time for us all to unite in building a sustainable future and fostering a culture of environment responsibility, before it is too late.