ORDER

1. This order is being passed in continuation of order dated 23.03.2020. The issue for consideration is the disposal of (cid:145)legacy(cid:146) waste dumped at Bhalswa, Ghazipur and Okhla dumpsites in Delhi where huge garbage has accumulated over the period of time, adversely impacting public health and the environment, requiring emergent, scientific and environmentally safe disposal, as per applicable rules.

2. We may note the earlier proceedings in the matter. O.A. No. 519/2019 was taken up in view of a news item published in (cid:147)The Times of India(cid:148) authored by Mr. Jasjeev Gandhiok & Paras Singh and titled (cid:147)Below Mountains of Trash lies Poison Lakes(cid:148) reporting that the said dumpsites were resulting in huge water contamination. The same were not being scientifically managed. The leachate was getting discharged into soil and also slipping to the River Yamuna, affecting its water quality. Accumulation of huge waste at the said sites posed a serious danger to the environment, life and public health in the area. The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 (SWM Rules) lay down statutory mandate for the manner of disposal of such old dumpsites but the same w