PROTECTING THE RIGHT TO LIFE AND ENVIRONMENT: A PIL TO ADDRESS THE HUMANITARIAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS AT DELHI’S LANDFILL SITES

Abstract

This Public Interest Litigation (PIL), filed under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, highlights the serious environmental and humanitarian crisis caused by the Bhalswa, Ghazipur, and Okhla landfill sites in Delhi. The uncontrolled growth and poor management of these landfills have created unsafe living conditions, resulting in a grave violation of fundamental rights, particularly the right to life, health, and dignity guaranteed under Article 21. The enormous heaps of untreated waste release toxic gases, cause frequent fires, contaminate groundwater, and severely degrade air quality. Nearly six lakh residents living in densely populated and poorly developed areas near these landfills are continuously exposed to these hazards. As a result, they suffer from serious health issues such as respiratory disorders, tuberculosis, skin diseases, and cancer. The situation is worsened by the lack of safe drinking water, inadequate sanitation facilities, poor healthcare access, and narrow, neglected roads that restrict emergency services.

Alarmingly, major food supply hubs, including Delhi’s largest poultry and dairy markets, operate close to these landfill sites, posing additional risks to public health. The petition points to a clear failure of authorities, particularly the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, to comply with their statutory duties under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, which mandate scientific waste segregation, processing, and disposal.

The PIL also highlights the government’s failure to provide basic civic amenities and to relocate and rehabilitate families living in hazardous conditions, despite prior assurances and judicial directions. It seeks urgent judicial intervention for time-bound landfill clearance, strict enforcement of environmental laws, provision of essential services, and relocation of affected residents. The petition further links the issue to India’s obligations under international human rights instruments and sustainable development commitments, emphasizing the need for accountable and humane urban governance.