Gurugram faces new waste crisis as illegal dumpyard emerges in Sector 21

As the Gurugram Municipal Corporation grapples with clearing years of legacy waste at the Bandhwari landfill, an unauthorised garbage dumpyard has sprung up in Sector 21 near the Gurugram-Delhi border, causing significant distress to residents.

The foul stench and unsightly piles of waste have sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding immediate action from the authorities concerned.

Community members have united to voice their grievances through local meetings and social media campaigns, highlighting the health risks and environmental hazards posed by the growing garbage heaps.

Ashok Yadav, an activist with the Residents’ Welfare Association, said the situation has deteriorated in recent months, with accumulating waste attracting pests and posing serious health risks.

“It’s not just the sight and smell — it’s impacting the daily lives of families, children and elderly residents,” Yadav said.

Prakash Lamba, president of the Sector-21 RWA, alleged that garbage from Delhi was also being dumped at the site. “The Gurugram MC must act swiftly to clean up this mess,” he demanded.

Aarti, a local resident, expressed her frustration, saying, “I never imagined having to fight for clean air and a healthy environment in my own home.” Sudesh Kumari, an elderly resident, added that the situation has taken an emotional toll on the community. “This isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a direct threat to our safety and wellbeing,” she said.

Yadav revealed that the 38-acre site, where the unauthorised dumpyard has emerged, originally belonged to the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA), now known as the Haryana Shahri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP). “It was reportedly sold and allotted to various firms and individuals a few years ago, but the current ownership or legal status is unclear,” he noted.

Gurugram MC Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg recently inspected the site alongside HSVP Administrator Vaishali Singh and Estate Officer Vikas Dhanda. Singh assured residents that she would investigate the land’s status and take appropriate action. Meanwhile, Garg instructed MC officials to address the garbage issue, issue notices to violators and ensure cleanliness in the area.

“The MCG is committed to providing a clean environment for residents,” Garg said. “This unauthorised dumpyard will be cleared, and the land restored to its original condition by all possible means,” he added.