New Delhi, June 11 -- The Union environment ministry has granted environmental clearance (EC) for the expansion of the Tehkhand waste-to-energy plant in south-east Delhi, paving the way for an additional 1,000 tonnes of garbage to be incinerated daily. Residents have expressed concerns about the environmental fallout of more waste incineration facilities in their neighbourhood.

For several years now, residents in south-east Delhi have been protesting against the two waste-to-energy plants in the area, alleging pollution norms violations, foul smell, and improper disposal of dry ash. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), however, has maintained that its facilities comply with prescribed environmental standards.

A senior MCD official ...