Archive · 1 Sep 2026
NGT Warns of Radiation Risks in Madhya Pradesh E-Waste
Madhya Pradesh has a growing problem with old electronic equipment, called e-waste.
The state produces about 5,000 tonnes of it every year.
Bhopal produces about 415 tonnes, but only one-tenth is handled scientifically.
Much of the rest is reportedly taken to unauthorised scrap units.
The National Green Tribunal is worried that some discarded medical machines could contain radioactive materials.
These machines include X-ray, CT and PET scanners.
Radiation can damage cells and DNA and may cause serious illness.
The tribunal also said it was unclear who should transport dangerous waste safely.
A committee now has four weeks to report what action should be taken.
Madhya Pradesh generates about 5,000 metric tonnes of e-waste annually, up from approximately 500 tonnes in 2019.
Bhopal produces around 415 tonnes of e-waste each year, but only about 10% is scientifically disposed of.
The NGT cited roughly 250 unauthorised scrap units operating in violation of environmental norms.
The tribunal raised concerns about radioactive medical equipment, including X-ray machines, CT scanners and PET scanners.
A five-member committee must submit a factual and action-taken report within four weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for October 1.
- Who
- The National Green Tribunal, Madhya Pradesh authorities, the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Bhopal Municipal Corporation and related departments are involved; the case was filed by Nitin Saxena.
- What
- The tribunal examined alleged improper e-waste disposal and raised concerns about radioactive medical equipment, hazardous-waste transport and emergency preparedness.
- When
- The matter was heard on August 31; the committee has four weeks to report, and the next hearing is scheduled for October 1.
- Where
- Madhya Pradesh, particularly Bhopal, with references to e-waste generation in Indore, Gwalior and Ujjain.
- Why
- The tribunal cited rising e-waste, limited scientific disposal, unauthorised scrap units and potential radiation and hazardous-material risks.
- Annual e-waste in Madhya Pradesh
- About 5,000 metric tonnes
- Madhya Pradesh e-waste in 2019
- Approximately 500 tonnes
- Bhopal annual e-waste
- About 415 tonnes
- Bhopal scientific disposal
- About 10%; the remaining 90% is reportedly handled through unauthorised scrap units
- Unauthorised scrap units
- Around 250 in the state
- Committee reporting deadline
- Four weeks
- Next hearing
- October 1