STRICTNESS ON STUBBLE BURNING, SILENCE ON BURNING OF URBAN WASTE

STRICTNESS ON STUBBLE BURNING, SILENCE ON BURNING OF URBAN WASTE

16-JUNE-ENG 22

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA---------------------------The strictness on burning of stubble in the fields by the administration is a laudable step, which aims to reduce environmental pollution.
On the other hand, there is tacit approval of the burning of hazardous waste by urban bodies. This contradiction not only puts a question mark on the administration's commitment towards the environment, but also poses serious threats to public health.

Burning of hazardous waste in urban areas is more dangerous than stubble burning. It includes plastic, electronic waste and other toxic substances, which release extremely harmful chemicals when burnt. These chemicals pollute the atmosphere and These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, cancer and other serious diseases. However, a paradox arises in this context when no administrative action is taken against the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or other responsible urban bodies for the pollution.

The double standards of the administration have recently come to the fore. The latest case is of Shahpur Nagar Panchayat of Bhojpur district where heaps of garbage are lying on the roadsides. And ignoring environmental protection, they have been set on fire. But the administration is silent. This dual policy is worrying as it shows that the administrative approach towards environmental protection is selective and inconsistent.

People say that on one hand, harsh penalties are imposed on poor farmers, while on the other hand, those who cause massive pollution in cities are ignored. This approach is not only unjust but also undermines efforts to protect the environment.

To avoid the accusation of double standards on the part of the administration, it is necessary that the administration should adopt a uniform and equitable environmental policy under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Take effective legal action against related agencies of the urban body that violate hazardous waste rules.