Home / Environment / NGT Orders Safety Audit of Hazardous Waste Units
NGT Orders Safety Audit of Hazardous Waste Units
10 Jul
Summary
- NGT mandates safety audit of all hazardous waste facilities in Tamil Nadu.
- Audit follows a chemical waste fire incident in Gummidipoondi in 2024.
- Fire department to inspect storage, firefighting, and waste disposal practices.
The southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has mandated a thorough safety audit for all hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities across Tamil Nadu. This action was initiated following a fire incident involving chemical waste at a facility in Gummidipoondi in 2024. The audit, to be conducted by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and the state fire and rescue services department, aims to evaluate existing prevention measures and address any identified shortcomings.
The NGT's order, issued after a suo motu case, emphasizes the need for enhanced vigilance, particularly concerning the storage of combustible materials. The fire, which occurred during high ambient temperatures, highlighted foreseeable risks that should have been managed. The fire department's inspection will cover compliance with storage standards, firefighting equipment, water reservoir maintenance, and the timely removal of combustible waste.
Furthermore, the NGT has directed the specific facility involved in the fire incident to limit the accumulation of combustible polymeric wastes. These materials must be transported to authorized facilities at regular intervals, preventing excessive on-site buildup.
