E-waste disposal bins distributed in Delhi

In first such major initiative to address the problem of electronic wastes, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit today launched a project under which special e-waste disposal bins will be set up across the city including in schools and markets.

In first such major initiative to address the problem of electronic wastes, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit today launched a project under which special e-waste disposal bins will be set up across the city including in schools and markets.

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Describing the initiative as "a humble beginning", Dikshit said serious efforts are needed to deal with the problem of ever increasing electronic wastes like old computers, TVs, refrigerators and mobile phones.

"In order to address the problem, we have decided to develop a systematic mechanism to collect e-wastes," she said speaking on the occasion.

The Chief Minister also distributed 16 such e-waste bins to NDMC and some schools. Ten bins will be installed in the schools and six will be put up in public areas under the municipal agency.

Dikshit, a strong votary of eco-friendly measures, said it was high time the city takes the challenge of e-waste seriously.

On the occasion, Dikshit also distributed 42 paper recycling machines to several private and government schools.

Dikshit said another common problem being faced by the city schools is the disposal of waste paper. Government has already installed paper recycling machines in nearly 90 schools.

Officials said E-waste collection bins will be installed at all important areas in a phased manner from where the authorised recyclers will collect wastes for recycling.

They said due to lack of proper collection mechanism, e-waste such as batteries, mobile phones and damaged CFL bulbs often find its way to landfills and through leaching they get mixed with ground water, causing serious health hazards.

The bins are made of a special material to prevent thefts even as users dispose of the unwanted electronic gadgets.

Delhi Government has tied up with three authorised e-waste recyclers who will pick up the waste regularly and dispose it safely.

The state government has already instructed government offices to dump their electronic waste strictly with the authorised recyclers and warned that those found violating the direction will face penalty.

According to unofficial estimates, nearly 12,000 metric tonnes of e-waste is generated in India annually. This waste is often burnt producing harmful gases loaded with lead, mercury and cadmium.