NGT Judgment 2025

NGT Judgment (Dr. Raja Singh v. Union of India & Ors., O.A. No. 298/2023)
Date of Judgment: 30 October 2025

Background

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) considered a petition seeking a nationwide ban on asbestos-cement roofing sheets in schools, citing potential health hazards associated with asbestos exposure. The applicant argued that the continued use of such materials posed serious health risks to students.

Tribunal’s Findings

After examining the submissions and available material, the NGT declined to impose a blanket ban on asbestos-cement roofing sheets in schools and other education institutions. The Tribunal noted the absence of conclusive scientific evidence directly linking asbestos-cement sheets in buildings to adverse health impacts under normal use conditions.

However, acknowledging the need for regulatory vigilance, the Tribunal emphasized that the matter requires a comprehensive policy review rather than an immediate prohibition.

Key Issues Considered

  • Environmental and health impacts of asbestos contained material in schools, residential houses and other buildings.
  • The scope of existing environmental and occupational safety regulations.
  • Responsibilities of regulatory authorities to prevent both occupational and non-occupational exposure.

Directions Issued

The Tribunal directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to:

  1. Conduct a comprehensive review of scientific studies, regulatory frameworks, and global best practices within six months.
  2. Formulate a regulatory policy and Action Plan—with clear timelines—for permitting/minimizing the use of asbestos-cement roofing sheets and other asbestos-containing materials in schools, residential buildings, and other public spaces.

Issue detailed guidelines for the manufacture, installation, maintenance, dismantling, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials to ensure environmental safety and protection of public health.

Conclusion

The NGT’s judgment does not impose a nationwide ban on asbestos-cement roofing. Instead, it calls upon the MoEF&CC to adopt a science-based, precautionary, and phased regulatory approach consistent with environmental health objectives and international best practices.