Jharkhand High Court Demands Government Action on Biomedical Waste Management

The Jharkhand High Court has taken a tough stance against the state's government for its failure to provide reports on biomedical waste management across all districts. The bench, led by Chief Justice MS Ramachandra Rao, expressed dissatisfaction over the non-compliance of previous orders given in February.

Despite being directed to update on the status of waste disposal mechanisms, the deputy commissioners of the districts remained unresponsive. Highlighting the seriousness of improper biomedical waste disposal, the court has fixed another deadline, urging the commissioners to submit their reports ahead of the next hearing, scheduled for June 16.

The Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board mentioned advancements, including new biomedical waste treatment plants in five districts, but more work remains. The petitioner, Jharkhand Human Rights Confederation, underscores the urgency of adhering to Biomedical Waste Disposal Management Rules under the Environmental Protection Act to protect the environment and public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)