Pranav B Prem

The National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench, New Delhi) has reviewed the progress in a matter concerning the presence of cancer-causing flame-retardant chemicals inside cars, following a news report highlighting serious health concerns arising from exposure to toxic substances in vehicle interiors.

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The case stems from a report published by NDTV.com on May 8, 2024, titled “People Are Breathing in Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Their Cars.” Acting on its suo motu powers, the Tribunal registered Original Application No. 717/2024 to examine the potential health and environmental impacts associated with the use of flame-retardant materials in automobiles. The Bench comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and Dr. A. Senthil Vel (Expert Member) has been monitoring the matter to ensure that the issue is scientifically investigated and addressed through appropriate regulatory measures.

At the latest hearing on September 26, 2025, the Tribunal took note of the additional affidavit dated July 22, 2025, filed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The affidavit outlines the progress made in initiating a scientific study and the steps taken to obtain financial and administrative sanctions for the project. It records that the National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Ahmedabad — an ICMR institute — has formulated a comprehensive research proposal to evaluate health risks arising from exposure to flame-retardant chemicals among professional drivers.

The proposed study will involve the collection and analysis of biological samples to scientifically assess health risks from prolonged exposure inside vehicles. It will adopt a zone-stratified biomonitoring approach, ensuring representation from different climatic zones and occupational environments. As per the proposal, the study will be carried out over 18 months, divided into phases that include recruitment of participants, procurement of analytical materials, preparation of standard operating procedures, method validation, sample collection, laboratory testing, data analysis, and dissemination of results.

The ICMR affidavit also stated that the research budget of ₹85.33 lakh required additional time for financial approvals, which have since been obtained. Dr. Sivaperumal, Scientist-E, appearing on behalf of ICMR, informed the Tribunal that the necessary approvals were received shortly before the hearing and that research activities would commence within one week.

Recording these submissions, the Bench observed that ICMR must “file the progress report at least one week before the next date of hearing” and directed it to expedite the work to ensure completion within the stipulated timeframe. The Tribunal emphasized that the study should be conducted with scientific rigour, as its findings could play a vital role in shaping future policies to safeguard public health — particularly for professional drivers and others exposed to such environments daily.

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The Bench further noted that flame-retardant chemicals, while enhancing fire safety, have been linked to several long-term health issues including respiratory disorders, hormonal disruption, and carcinogenicity. Given the widespread use of vehicles and the daily exposure of millions of citizens, the Tribunal underscored the significance of the study’s outcomes for policymaking and environmental regulation. Reiterating its commitment to overseeing environmental and public health issues with scientific precision, the NGT directed ICMR to submit its detailed progress report before the next hearing. The matter has been listed for further consideration on December 24, 2025.

Appearance

Respondents: Mr. Akshit Gupta, Advs. with Dr. Sivaperumal, Scientist - E & Dr. Geetika Yadav, Scientist – F for ICMR Mr. Amit Singh Chauhan & Ms. Shikha Chauhan, Advs. for CPCB Mr. Gigi. C. George, Adv. for Ministry of Roadways Mr. Sanjay Sarin & Mr. Preshit Bagul, Advs. for R - 8 (Through VC)

Cause Title: News Item titled “People Are Breathing in Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Their Cars” published on NDTV.com on 08.05.2024

Case No: Original Application No. 717/2024 

Coram: Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson), Dr. A. Senthil Vel (Expert Member)