Supreme Court Directs Delegation of Powers to District Collectors for SWM Rules, 2026
The Supreme Court has instructed the MoEFCC to issue a notification under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 delegating its powers to District Collectors for one year, solely for supervising the SWM Rules, 2026.
Key Developments (May 5, 2026 Order)
- MoEFCC to issue a notification under Section 23 and delegate powers under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act to all District Collectors for a period of one year.
- District Collectors must form a “special cell” of relevant officials to monitor implementation.
- Collectors empowered to order disconnection of water and electricity to bulk waste generators violating the rules.
- Virtual spot inspections of dumping sites to be conducted; fortnightly reports to be sent to State Secretaries.
- State governments to prioritize grants for compliant urban and rural local bodies and penalise defaulters.
- Chief Secretaries to devise mechanisms for tourist destinations and pilgrim centres.
- Centre to address budgetary and manpower constraints; explore a dedicated rural‑local‑body cadre.
- Relevant ministries to consider using CSR contributions for biogas and waste‑to‑energy plants.
Important Facts
The order came while hearing an appeal by the National Green Tribunal against the Bhopal Municipal Corporation, which had been found violating the earl