India importing substantial world e trash

India importing substantial world e trashA large amount of e-trash from around the world is being imported into the country by recycling industries located in various parts of the country. The unplanned approach to dealing with e-waste has raised concerns in the country.

Recently radiation detected in the Delhi's Mayapuri Industrial area is a wake up call to the authorities. Experts say that they found Cobalt-60 radiation in a shop of a metal scrap dealer.

The government which is working on its response to dealing with the problem will come out with draft proposal on Electronic Waste Handling and Management Rules, under the Environment Protection Act by the end of the month.

The import of used computer parts including Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitors is spreading hazardous lead components as most cities lack proper facilities for dumping of dangerous waste.

A non government organization, Toxic Links has initiated project e-waste to deal with the problem and help authorities to take corrective measures. Project manager "CRT monitors make use of leaded glass that contains nearly
2-2.5 kg of the metal. The recycling of this glass is a major area of concern and has been found to make way to even items of domestic use, like bangles etc, as there is no sustainable technology as yet to separate lead from glass."

The CRT monitors are obsolete most of the countries around the world including India being replaced by LCD and plasma screen monitors.

Toxic Links estimates that 40,000- 50,000 tonnes of used electronic equipment are brought in to India unnoticed every month and most of it ends up in illegal dumping grounds.

The hardware waste contains lead, mercury, cadmium and beryllium besides hazardous chemicals like brominated flame retardants cusing major dangers to the health of people.

People are seen working with their base hands to tearing apart personal computers, monitors and other electronic hardware for a merge US$ 2 per day. India does not have any set rules for handling of electronic waste and the availability of cheap labor makes it attractive for local traders and foreign countries to get rid of their e waste.