Himachal issues new guidelines to streamline E-Waste management
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Shimla, Jan 16,
The Government of Himachal Pradesh has introduced stricter guidelines for e-waste management to address unscientific disposal practices and ensure compliance with the “E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016.” The Department of Environment, Science, Technology & Climate Change has issued a new Office Memorandum mandating that all e-waste generated by government departments, boards, corporations, and commissions be disposed of through authorized channels only.
The move was prompted by concerns over the environmental risks posed by improper e-waste disposal, which did not align with existing regulations from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change or guidelines issued by the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB), stated a media communique by the department. Earlier, e-waste disposal processes relied on auction procedures outlined in the HP Financial Rules, 2009, and the Office Manual, which lacked specific provisions for scientific handling of e-waste, it added.
Under the new guidelines, e-waste must be routed exclusively through authorized collection centers, dealers, dismantlers, recyclers, or take-back service providers registered with the HP State Pollution Control Board or the Central Pollution Control Board, they informed. Additionally, only these authorized entities will be permitted to participate in e-waste auctions.
The Department has appealed to citizens, NGOs, and organizations to join efforts in keeping the environment clean and free of e-waste hazards. It has urged everyone to avoid dumping e-waste in open spaces or mixing it with general waste and to ensure that e-waste is handed over to authorized recycling centers. The Department has also encouraged spreading awareness about the importance of responsible e-waste management within communities.
E-waste contains hazardous substances that pose significant threats to public health and the environment if not managed properly. The government’s initiative aims to mitigate these risks by promoting sustainable waste management practices. Government bodies have been directed to strictly adhere to the new regulations, and citizens have been called upon to contribute to making Himachal Pradesh a cleaner and greener state.
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