Panel flags waste burning in Ludhiana, moves NGT over violation

The unchecked burning of organic waste continues to plague Ludhiana, with residents and environmentalists raising alarm over its impact on public health and air quality. In a recent incident that has sparked outrage, large quantities of organic waste were allegedly set ablaze at Rakh Bagh — an area known for its greenery and official residences, including that of the Deputy Commissioner.

The Public Action Committee (PAC) has formally submitted a complaint to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), citing violations of Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules-2016 and environmental laws. The complaint refers to an incident on October 16, when waste was reportedly burnt by an area resident around 3.27 pm

“This is not just a matter of smoke — it’s a blatant disregard for environmental norms and public health,” said PAC member Kapil Dev. “Despite repeated appeals and clear directives from the Supreme Court and NGT, such practices continue unchecked. If authorities fail to act, we will escalate the matter legally.”

The complainant stated that immediate alerts were sent to Municipal Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal and Horticulture JE Kirpal Singh via WhatsApp, but no action had been taken so far. Photographs with GPS coordinates showing the waste fire have been attached with the complaint for reference.

“Rakh Bagh is supposed to be a green lung area of the city, not a dumping ground for toxic smoke,” said PAC member Dr Amandeep Singh Bains. “Residents are forced to inhale fumes daily, and the silence from the civic authorities is unacceptable.” The PAC has warned that if no action is taken within two days, it will move the NGT under Sections 25, 26 and 28 of the NGT Act, citing violation of environmental directives.

“Every Diwali, we spend days scrubbing our homes, decorating every corner and lighting lamps to welcome prosperity. But what about the environment we live in every day?” says Anuradha Sharma, a resident of Civil Lines.

“The real Diwali will be when we stop polluting our surroundings, when the air is clean enough for our children to breathe without worry. That’s the kind of celebration our city truly needs.”