Pollution Threat: NGT Seeks Response From Govt, MPPCB And BMC Illegal Plastic Factories Put Nearly 2 Lakh Residents At Risk In Bhopal

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh - The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns over the potential health and environmental dangers posed by approximately 50 unlicensed plastic factories located in residential and densely populated areas of Bhopal. These factories have been operating without the necessary permits and fail to adhere to pollution control measures, thereby endangering the well-being of nearly 2 lakh residents.

The NGT has taken a suo motu stance on the matter and is awaiting responses from the Madhya Pradesh government, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB), and the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC). They have been given two to three weeks to submit their replies, with the next hearing scheduled for October 29.

The alleged illegal factories are causing significant pollution, with PM10 levels in the area reaching 225-250, among the highest recorded in the city. Additionally, the narrow lanes where these factories operate make it difficult for fire tenders to respond to fires, which reportedly occur twice a week during summer. Despite a ban on single-use plastic since 2022, large quantities of plastic waste continue to be generated and recycled in the area.

The BMC has allotted around 800 plots for businesses, but records of the operations on each plot are lacking. Experts urge the relocation of industries without proper clearances to non-residential areas promptly.