Image Source: News18
A legal notice has been served to the Maharashtra government and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) over the decision to relocate Dharavi residents to the Mulund and Deonar dumping grounds. The move has sparked concerns over environmental hazards and violations of solid waste management regulations.
Key developments
-
- Advocate Sagar Devre, who filed the legal notice, argues that landfills are unfit for human habitation for at least 15 years after closure due to methane emissions and groundwater contamination.
-
- The Maharashtra government has allotted 124 acres of Deonar dumping ground and 12 acres of Mulund dumping ground for the rehabilitation of Dharavi residents deemed ineligible for housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
-
- Environmental activists highlight that Deonar remains an active landfill, releasing over 6,200 kilograms of methane per hour, making it one of India’s top methane hotspots.
-
- The legal notice cites violations of the Central Pollution Control Board guidelines, which mandate a 500-meter buffer zone around closed landfill sites before any residential construction can be considered.
-
- Concerns have been raised over the lack of public consultation and environmental impact assessments before approving the relocation plan.
Impact and Response
The relocation proposal has drawn criticism from urban planners and environmentalists, who argue that housing should not come at the cost of health and safety. Legal experts warn that bypassing due process in such a large-scale project could set a dangerous precedent for urban planning and rehabilitation efforts.
Sources: Mid-Day, The Hindu, Mathrubhumi, Financial Express, Outlook Business.
Advertisement
Advertisement