Constraints, Challenges for Illegal Hazardous Waste Dumpsite Investigations by Non Government Organizations

The illegal waste dumpsites in India are increasing  in numbers either  next to industrialized pockets established by the government or private entrepreneurs  

These dumpsites are isolated in nature consisting of single or multiple waste generated by several industries  .

It may become a common point of disposal either on the outskirts of industrial areas or in remote pockets but grabs more attention by the media or general public or the government authorities when substantial damage has been caused either to the community or to the environment resources as well.

Such illegal dumpsites are becoming common in developing and under-developed countries. The role of professional voluntary organizations is very essential to have a check on such development and also help the regulators to conduct detailed investigations as per the uniform code of practice or standard industry practice. The professional institutions like ACHMM-India Chapter face lot of hurdles when they propose to volunteer to conduct such studies and develop the data base for the use of regulatory authorities.  

The study is related to the following issues

1.  Legalities, legal implications, policies and clearances, legal constraints from the regulators perspective and the necessary changes to be brought for active participation of the professional bodies;

2.  Workers safety, health, financial benefits, limitations and pre-investigation protocols and challenges;

3.  EIA program before investigation , pre cleanup  and post site remediation procedures;

4.  Community response and inventories to be carried out