Solid Waste and Human Health: A Legal Study under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 with Special Reference to Raipur District

Abstract

Solid waste management is now a major environmental and public health issue in India, especially in areas where poor segregation, collection, treatment and disposal lead to risks of contamination of the air, water and soil as well as exposure of humans. The present study looks at the effects of solid waste on human health from a legal point of view, with a specific focus on the Raipur District in Chhattisgarh. It uses a doctrinal-empirical approach to legal research, drawing on environmental laws and regulations, judicial rulings, reports from the government and regulatory bodies, and other relevant secondary sources. Particular emphasis is placed on the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the current Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, which came into effect on 1 April 2026. The study also examines the roles of local authorities, pollution control agencies and waste producers in meeting their legal obligations. The analysis shows that although Raipur has established systems for the collection, transfer, processing and the remediation of legacy waste, there are still deficiencies in source segregation, compliance monitoring, institutional capacity, public involvement and effective enforcement. The study concludes that the main problem is not simply the existence of environmental legislation but rather its consistent and verifiable implementation at the local level. In order to reduce health risks and achieve proper environmental protection, it is necessary to strengthen regulatory supervision, the capacity of municipal authorities, protection for workers and community participation.