Delhi’s toxic air is often in the news, but few talk about a major source of this pollution located in the heart of the city. The waste-to-energy plant in South Delhi’s Okhla was meant to solve two problems: reduce mounting waste and generate power for the capital. But it’s been at the heart of controversy with locals voicing concerns about health risks posed by toxic emissions. A recent New York Times investigation reignited the debate, pointing to violations of norms and soil tests that revealed toxins known to cause cancer and other severe health issues. Newslaundry visited areas around the plant and spoke to residents affected by emissions. They pointed to several problems, such as “miscarriages”, “increased risk of cancer”, “foul smell” and fly ash deposits at their homes. “Delhi already has a miserable AQI. But in Sukhdev Vihar, the AQI is worst mainly because of its proximity to the plant,” said Varna Sriraman, a local resident.
