India, Oct. 28 -- Observing that a dhalao around 50 metres from AIIMS was acting as a major source of pollution, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed its closure within six months.

Until closure, the tribunal said the MCD must comply with CPCB's standard operating procedure (SOP) for environmental protection, including covered storage, odour management, leachate control, fire prevention, and aesthetics. The NGT has asked the DPCC to monitor the dhalao, and any failure to comply will invite immediate remedial and punitive action.

Dhalaos (garbage dumps) are typically three-walled open structures where sanitation workers tip in daily waste before loading it onto larger trucks.

The NGT was hearing a plea filed by an 85-year-old ...