Delhi Authorities Shut Down 35 Illegal E-Waste Units in 48-Hour Crackdown

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has launched a crackdown on illegal e-waste operations in the city, issuing show-cause notices to 35 units based in residential buildings in the Mustafabad area of Shahdara North Zone. The authorities have directed these units to shut down within 48 hours or face sealing.

The action was prompted after around 80 unauthorized e-waste storage units were identified in the area, with their records now being verified by the licensing department. MCD officials warn that improper disposal of e-waste, containing toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium, can severely pollute the land, water, and air, posing serious health risks to the local population.

The crackdown began after a complaint was received from the deputy speaker, Mohan Singh Bisht, who highlighted the widespread problem of such illegal e-waste operations across Delhi. Hundreds of these units are reportedly running out of residential buildings, with vendors stocking old computers, LED screens, wires, and other electronic parts. At night, they burn the scrap on roads near homes to extract metals, filling the air with toxic fumes and causing respiratory issues for residents.

Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Delhi government is taking strict action against these illegal industries to curb pollution. The environment minister has stated that only units with valid consent from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and compliance with environmental norms will be allowed to operate. The current crackdown is expected to be expanded to other areas of the city in the coming days.