Delhi Launches New E-Waste Recycling Initiatives to Curb Pollution

As of October 16th, 2025, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is taking steps to tackle the city's mounting electronic waste (e-waste) crisis. Delhi is one of the largest producers of e-waste in India, generating an estimated 2.3 lakh metric tonnes annually, which accounts for around 10% of the country's total.

To address this issue, the MCD has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to empanel new agencies that will be responsible for the collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of e-waste across residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial areas under the MCD's jurisdiction. The bidding process is expected to conclude by mid-November, and the selected agencies will be awarded one-year contracts.

The MCD's initiative aims to set up modern recycling facilities that comply with the 2022 E-Waste Management Rules. The selected agencies will also conduct field surveys to identify e-waste hotspots and engage with resident welfare associations, self-help groups, market associations, and NGOs to channel recyclable and scrap materials into the formal waste management system.

Electronic waste contains toxic components that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly. Exposure to substances like mercury, lead, and cadmium can damage the brain, heart, liver, kidneys, and skeletal system, and also adversely affect air, water, and soil quality. The MCD's new e-waste management project is a crucial step in ensuring environmental sustainability and public health in the city.