NGT orders evidence-based review on asbestos use, seeks guidelines for safe management

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to conduct a thorough review of global best practices and scientific data on the use of asbestos-cement roofing sheets and other asbestos-based materials in schools, homes, and public buildings. The Ministry has been given six months to complete the review and make a policy decision based on evidence.

A bench led by Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi (Judicial Member) and Dr. Afroz Ahmad (Expert Member) instructed the MoEF&CC to prepare comprehensive guidelines for the manufacturing, installation, maintenance, dismantling, and disposal of asbestos products. These guidelines are expected to align with the Ministry’s Vision Statement on Environment and Human Health and include an action plan for the safe management and disposal of asbestos materials.

The Tribunal emphasized that children’s health must be a top priority, and any policy decisions must follow the precautionary principle under Section 20 of the NGT Act, 2010, especially when scientific evidence is unclear. However, the NGT clarified that there was no need for an immediate nationwide ban or replacement of asbestos roofing at this stage, as there is insufficient scientific evidence to warrant such an action.

In addition to the review, the NGT directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safe handling, maintenance, and disposal of asbestos materials to prevent the release of harmful fibres into the air. The CPCB will also guide State Pollution Control Boards in implementing these procedures.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Education has been asked to issue advisories to schools to ensure the proper upkeep of existing asbestos-cement roofs. This includes using protective coatings, following Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms during any repairs or maintenance, and disposing of asbestos waste only at authorized facilities in accordance with the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.

During the hearing, the Fibre Cement Products Manufacturers' Association (FCPMA), which represents the asbestos-cement industry, submitted that its members comply with all environmental and occupational safety standards, including those prescribed under the Factories Act, 1948, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and relevant Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications. The Association further argued that asbestos-cement sheets are safe to use under normal conditions, as the fibres are bound within cement and do not pose a risk unless disturbed. The FCPMA also cautioned that any abrupt restrictions on asbestos could harm employment and small-scale manufacturing units that rely on the material.

Acknowledging these concerns, the NGT stressed the need for precautionary regulation rather than abrupt prohibition, emphasizing a balanced approach that considers both public health and economic stability until a conclusive scientific decision is made.

The NGT’s directive aims to ensure that asbestos products are used safely, with clear guidelines for their handling, disposal, and maintenance, while protecting public health and minimizing any potential risks, particularly in schools and residential areas.