The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has set a strict six-month deadline for the clearing of approximately 25 lakh
tonnes of legacy waste at the Bandhwari landfill in Gurgaon. This deadline aims to address the severe
environmental and health hazards posed by the landfill, which has been operational since 1996. The NGT has
also mandated the Haryana government to deposit ₹20 crore in an escrow account to ensure the timely
clearance of the waste. The waste management process at the Bandhwari landfill has already picked up pace,
with the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) aiming to clear the site by December 2024. The NGT’s
directive also includes the requirement for the authorities to submit a detailed action plan and regular progress
reports to ensure transparency and accountability in the cleanup process. The efforts to clear the landfill are
being closely monitored, with the NGT emphasizing the importance of scientific processing and disposal
methods to prevent further environmental degradation.