SHIMLA: The High Court of Himachal Pradesh has made a landmark decision concerning waste management and environmental protection in the state.

 In a case titled "Suleman vs. Union of India," the High court Division Bench of the Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan  abd Sushil Kukreja issued a comprehensive order outlining various directives to improve waste management practices, especially regarding plastic waste.

The court emphasized Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), where producers, importers, and brand owners are responsible for managing the waste generated from their products.

Major directives include mandatory EPR registration, promoting local processing of plastic waste, and quarterly reporting of waste processing quantities.

Additionally, the court highlighted the importance of collaboration with local bodies for waste collection and segregation.

It stressed the need for transparent reporting of EPR compliance and urged the government to enforce environmental laws rigorously.

Specific measures were outlined for hilly areas, such as avoiding landfill construction on hills and promoting decentralized waste processing.

The court also encouraged the adoption of sustainable alternatives to plastic and the use of technology for better waste management.

Furthermore, the order emphasized the accountability of elected bodies in implementing environmental laws and promoting public participation in waste management practices.

The execution of the High Court's order will involve various agencies and departments. Some of the key agencies responsible for implementing the directives include:

1. Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB): Responsible for monitoring and regulating pollution levels and enforcing environmental laws in the state, including overseeing EPR compliance and waste management practices.

2. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Gram Panchayats: Tasked with collaborating with producers, importers, and brand owners for waste collection, segregation, and processing at the local level.

3. Municipal Corporations: Responsible for enforcing solid waste management rules and regulations within their respective jurisdictions, including the ban on plastic flexi banners and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

4. Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration (HIPA): Responsible for conducting training programs for councillors and municipal staff to enhance their understanding of municipal laws and environmental regulations.

5. National Informatics Centre (NIC): Responsible for reactivating the grievance redressal app developed for the Municipal Corporation, facilitating public participation in environmental conservation efforts through digital governance.

6. Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI) Society: Tasked with conducting a waste audit to gather empirical data for informed decision-making in waste management policies and practices.

7. Various government departments and officials: Responsible for submitting compliance affidavits and action reports, ensuring the implementation of the court's directives, including the Chief Secretary, concerned municipal officials, and other relevant government bodies.

These agencies will work collaboratively to ensure the effective implementation of the High Court's order and promote sustainable waste management practices in Himachal Pradesh.

Advocate for the petitioner were Deven Khanna, who got the appreciation from the High Court. Also the Court appreciated the proactive role played by the member secretary, HP state pollution control board,  Anil Joshi, IFS. 

Court's order sets a significant precedent for environmental justice in Himachal Pradesh, aiming to create a sustainable ecosystem for waste management and environmental protection.