In Jhajjar, plaints of pollution lead to ban on plastic-related industrial activities

In a decisive step to address mounting environmental degradation and serious public health concerns, the Jhajjar district administration has enforced a two-month ban on all illegal plastic-related industrial activities in residential and agricultural areas of Bahadurgarh. The move, enforced under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, comes amid rising complaints of pollution following burning of plastic/other industrial waste and misuse of domestic electricity for industrial purposes.

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Why was the ban necessary?

The rapid proliferation of unauthorised plastic processing and recycling units in Bahadurgarh has raised alarm bells. Several units, often operating in makeshift facilities within residential zones and farmlands, were found flouting environmental norms by burning plastic waste in the open and releasing toxic fumes. The health hazards posed by these practices — including respiratory illnesses, contamination of groundwater and degradation of agricultural soil — triggered urgent intervention from the district authorities.

Which areas are under scrutiny?

Villages such as Parnala, Bamnoli, Kanonda, Kherpur, Ladrawan, Sidipur, Lowa Kalan and Lowa Khurd, along with areas surrounding Nizampur Road, have emerged as hotspots of illegal plastic-related industrial activities. Numerous complaints from local residents about thick smoke and foul odours prompted investigations, which uncovered widespread misuse of domestic electricity lines to power industrial machinery.

What the order prohibits?

The order categorically bans the operation of plastic-related industrial units in residential and agricultural areas without valid permits besides the burning of plastic waste in open fields or near settlements and the use of unauthorised or domestic electricity connections to run industrial setups. All such activities have been deemed violations of public safety and environmental norms.

What actions will the authorities take?

To ensure strict implementation, the administration has deployed a multi-agency task force. Key officials — including the Deputy Commissioners of Police, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, Superintending Engineer of UHBVNL, District Town Planner and the Executive Officer of the Municipal Council — have been tasked with conducting regular inspections, shutting down illegal units and initiating legal proceedings against offenders. Violators will face prosecution under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita.

What will be the role of citizens in this drive?

Recognising the role of community vigilance, the district administration has urged residents to report suspicious plastic burning or unregistered factories in their vicinity. This collaborative approach aims to restore environmental safety and uphold lawful industrial practices in Bahadurgarh. With this sweeping crackdown, the district authorities hope to send a clear message that unchecked pollution and illegal industrial activity would no longer be tolerated.