What is the current situation at the Kharar dumping ground?

The 45-year-old dumping ground in Kharar continues to release toxic smoke and contaminated leachate, affecting nearly 6,000 residents, despite a Rs 65 lakh penalty imposed by the PPCB.

Why did the PPCB fine the Municipal Council in Kharar?

The PPCB fined the Municipal Council for repeated violations of Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, including unscientific dumping and a lack of proper infrastructure at the site.

What measures are being taken to resolve the Kharar toxic site issue?

New waste processing machinery is being installed, and a damaged boundary wall will be rebuilt, with authorities promising systematic waste management and clearance within three months.

Home / Environment / 45-Year Toxic Dump Poisons 6,000: Fine Ineffectual

45-Year Toxic Dump Poisons 6,000: Fine Ineffectual

26 Dec

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Summary

A 45-year-old dumping ground continues to endanger nearly 6,000 residents.
A Rs 65-lakh fine was imposed for repeated Solid Waste Management Rules violations.
Fires, toxic smoke, and contaminated leachate plague the site near residential areas.

45-Year Toxic Dump Poisons 6,000: Fine Ineffectual

A significant environmental and health crisis persists at a 45-year-old dumping ground near Khanpur Kharar, Punjab, despite a Rs 65-lakh penalty imposed by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). The financial measure, levied for violations of Solid Waste Management Rules, has proven ineffective in curbing the ongoing pollution that endangers approximately 6,000 residents in nearby Darpan City and its colonies. Persistent issues include fires emitting toxic smoke and contaminated leachate seeping into residential areas.

Official directives issued as early as August 7, 2019, for corrective measures were reportedly ignored by the Municipal Council. Internal PPCB reports from 2019 highlighted violations of siting norms, operation without authorization, and lack of groundwater monitoring. Despite civic body assurances of green belts and boundary wall construction, ground inspections revealed collapsed walls, unscientific dumping, and garbage overflow. Residents question the approval of housing projects adjacent to the long-standing dump site, citing administrative negligence.