Home / Environment / Delhi Plant Expansion Sparks Environmental Fears
Delhi Plant Expansion Sparks Environmental Fears
11 Jun
Summary
- Tehkhand waste plant gets clearance for 1,000 tonnes daily incineration increase.
- Residents cite pollution, foul smell, and ash concerns from existing plants.
- Activists argue for waste segregation and composting over incineration.
The Union environment ministry has approved the expansion of the Tehkhand waste-to-energy plant in south-east Delhi. This clearance will allow the facility to process an additional 1,000 tonnes of garbage daily, increasing its power generation capacity by 20MW. This expansion is part of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) broader plan to enhance the city's waste processing capabilities and minimize landfill dependence.
Residents living near existing facilities have voiced significant concerns, citing ongoing issues with pollution, foul odors, and improper ash disposal. They fear the expansion will exacerbate these problems, impacting their health and daily lives. Environmental activists argue that Delhi should prioritize waste segregation, composting, and recycling over incineration.
Activists emphasize that incineration destroys valuable resources and produces toxic ash. They advocate for greater focus on organic waste composting and material recovery. The MCD, however, maintains that its waste-to-energy plants adhere to all prescribed environmental standards, aiming for 100% waste processing to prevent new landfill creation.
