India’s Green Tribunal Orders Strict Review of Asbestos Use to Protect Children
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directives to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) regarding the safe handling and disposal of asbestos materials. The tribunal has also ordered a review of permitting asbestos-cement roofing sheets and other asbestos-based materials, prioritizing the health of children.
The NGT has instructed the MoEF&CC, in consultation with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Ministry of Education, to frame Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for safe handling and disposal of asbestos materials. Additionally, the tribunal has directed the MoEF&CC to review and decide on the permitting of asbestos-cement roofing sheets and other asbestos-based materials within six months.
The CPCB has been directed to review all scientific materials and global best practices within the same period and make an appropriate policy decision regarding the use of these materials in schools, residential houses, and other buildings. The NGT has also asked the MoEF&CC to prepare guidelines for the manufacturing, installation, maintenance, dismantling, and disposal of asbestos products.
The Fibre Cement Products Manufacturers' Association (FCPMA) maintains that asbestos-cement sheets are safe during normal use, operating under stringent safety and regulatory frameworks. However, the NGT has emphasized the need to prioritize the health of children and follow the precautionary principle while making decisions on asbestos use, highlighting the importance of safety measures and responsible use.
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