Context :Residents” Desperation for Change:
- Ghazipur landfill site, located on the Delhi-U.P. border, remains a major issue for local residents.
- Despite official claims of landfill size reduction, residents remain skeptical and see little improvement in their daily lives.
- A pungent odor persists, which residents have become desensitized to, highlighting the extent of the problem.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance ), GS 3(Environment)
Longstanding Problem:
- The landfill, spanning 70+ acres, has been operational since 1984 and is one of Delhi’s largest waste disposal sites.
- Situated near residential colonies, farms, and slaughterhouses, the site’s proximity to landmarks like Qutab Minar intensifies the environmental and social concerns.
- The lack of basic amenities—such as regular tap water supply and affordable electricity—adds to the residents’ struggles.
Infrastructural Challenges:
- Water and electricity supply is a significant concern. Residents rely on water tankers arriving only every third day, and high electricity costs exacerbate their challenges.
- The area’s poor infrastructure also contributes to the residents feeling neglected and isolated.
Environmental Health Risks:
- Fires at the landfill, especially during summer and monsoon seasons, release toxic gases, worsening the living conditions for nearby residents.
- The environmental impact, including air pollution and health risks from prolonged exposure to hazardous substances, is a significant issue.
