Toxic waste fire sparks panic on Haryana-Rajasthan border, DC steps in

As the dangerous practice of burning toxic industrial waste in the Aravallis continues unchecked along the Haryana-Rajasthan border, authorities have finally stepped in following a major fire outbreak last night in the Tauru block of Nuh district.

The blaze, allegedly triggered by illegal waste burning by industrial mafias from Rajasthan, escalated rapidly and began spreading into forested areas, prompting urgent intervention by officials from both Haryana and Rajasthan. This marks yet another instance in a series of hazardous fires that have plagued the region, particularly around Khori Khurd village, despite repeated complaints from locals and media reports.

Responding to the crisis, Nuh Deputy Commissioner Vishram Kumar Meena has formed a special committee to monitor and crack down on the illegal activity. “We have a special committee now. They will patrol the area and track the true culprits who will be penalised. There will be no illegal waste burning in Nuh,” Meena told The Tribune.

The Tribune has consistently reported on the issue, highlighting how barrels of chemical waste — allegedly brought in from industrial zones like Bhiwadi in Rajasthan — are routinely set on fire in forested patches within Haryana territory. The problem first came to light in 2024, prompting action by the Haryana Government and even intervention by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). However, the toxic practice has returned.

Local villagers, deeply disturbed by the recurrence, say their health and safety are at risk. “After staying away from our village for almost a year, the ‘waste mafia’ is back and has started burning industrial pollutants. Yesterday they could have burnt the entire forest and our village. The life of villagers is under threat again. We want a permanent solution,” said the Khori Khurd panchayat.

Despite earlier denials by pollution control and forest department officials citing lack of proof, last night’s fire has forced a renewed focus on enforcement. The newly formed committee is expected to conduct regular patrols and hold offenders accountable.

Haryana Tribune