Supreme Court sets waste compliance steps for Delhi NCR bulk generators

Large malls, hotels, hospitals, commercial complexes and residential societies that do not comply with solid-waste rules may face temporary water or electricity disconnections under Supreme Court directions.

The court ordered District Collectors, through state Chief Secretaries, to identify bulk waste generators within six weeks and inform them of their obligations. These generators must segregate waste, store it safely and hand it over through the prescribed system, the bench said.

In Delhi NCR, the order could affect how large housing societies and commercial premises handle waste at source. Utilities disconnected for non-compliance may be restored after a compliance certificate is submitted.

The court also called for digital monitoring through geo-tagged photographs of waste dumps and monthly reports on a dedicated portal. Its monitoring committee will track compliance by bodies including the Railways, Defence Department, public sector undertakings and central ministries, with attention to river pollution caused by municipal waste.

Schools and higher-education departments have been asked to introduce practical and theoretical solid-waste management education and train teachers and students.