Illegal Bio-Medical Waste Disposal Plant Poses A Health Threat

GUWAHATI: A glaring example of negligence and casual approach of the city hospitals in scientifically disposing of bio-medical waste the police and administration on Wednesday found an illegal disposal plant of such waste at Hatisila in Panikhaiti on the city outskirts.

The incident came to light when the local residents of Hatisila informed the police about a foul smell that emanated from the said disposal plant. “We have heard that some hospitals have dumped huge piles of bio-medical wastes such as expired medicines, needles and syringes. We saw smoke from the said waste disposal plant. Foul smell pervaded and polluted the air of the otherwise naturally serene locality at Hatisila,” a resident said.

Bio-medical waste is waste generated during the diagnosis, treatment or immunization of human beings and animals.

Some residents have alleged that some bio-medical wastes like used needles and syringes are being resold in the market. Senior officials of City Police and Kamrup Metro administration after visiting the spot detained two persons, sealed the waste disposal plant and started an investigation.

Sources said the detained persons have reportedly told the police that medical wastes from Gauhati Medical College & Hospital were being dumped at Hatisila. Police has, however, refused to divulge the details and collected samples of wastes for investigation.

A retired principal of GMCH said if bio-medical waste is being disposed in an unscientific manner, it will pose a serious threat to human health.

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