Is a 'Green' Revolution Poisoning India's Capital?

A New York Times investigation reveals that Delhi's waste-to-energy initiative, intended to address the city's severe trash crisis, is instead exposing residents to hazardous levels of toxic substances. The Timarpur-Okhla Waste to Energy Plant, which incinerates thousands of tons of garbage daily, has been linked to alarming health issues among nearby residents, including respiratory problems and increased rates of miscarriages. Despite government assurances of safety, air and soil tests indicate that emissions from the plant contain dangerous levels of heavy metals and chemicals, including lead and arsenic, far exceeding safety standards. The ashes from the incineration process are often illegally dumped in residential areas, affecting as many as one million people. Local doctors report a rise in health complications, and residents describe a grim reality of living under a cloud of toxic ash. The government, while aware of these dangers, continues to promote similar waste-to-energy projects across the country, raising concerns about the long-term health impacts on urban populations. Critics argue that the initiative, branded as part of India's "Green Growth" strategy, is failing to protect public health and the environment.

- Delhi's waste-to-energy plant is linked to severe health issues in nearby communities.

- Toxic emissions from the plant exceed safety standards, affecting air and soil quality.

- Residents report increased respiratory problems and miscarriages since the plant's opening.

- The government continues to promote similar projects despite known health risks.

- The initiative is criticized as a failure of the "Green Growth" strategy in India.