Bengaluru: “China and Singapore can become models for the scientific management of electronic waste. Their system of work and efficiency of their workers are at a higher level”, said State Pollution Control Board Chief Environment Officer D R Kumaraswamy.

Speaking after inaugurating the “All India e-waste Recyclers Association” here recently, he said that in India, e-waste was not scientifically divided and reused. “The heavy metals in waste like arsenic, cadmium and lead join the water sources and mud, causing environmental pollution. Polluted water obviously causes various diseases,” he added.

“The Central government has directed to check the waste recycling units. Within three months, the surprise visits will be complete. Stringent action will be taken against those who don’t maintain the documents and manage e-waste properly”, said Central Pollution Control Board Chief Environment Officer S Suresh.

State Pollution Control Board Environment Officer M C Ramesh said, “There are complaints about transporting e-waste to illegal units. License holders should have an eye on this. These activities can be brought to our notice through WhatsApp, e-mail, phone or through a direct complaint. We will take stringent action against illegal unit holders.”

Association President Kaleeregowda said, “In India, there are only 180 units to recycle e-waste that also have licenses. There are 87 such units in Bengaluru itself. After the ‘Make in India’ project, the use of electronic gadgets has increased substantially. Regarding e-waste management, awareness should be created among manufacturers and producers.”