In a major decision for the building materials industry, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has refused to enforce a nationwide ban on the use of asbestos cement roofing sheets in educational institutions. The court noted that current scientific evidence does not demonstrate a direct link between asbestos cement sheets and health problems under normal conditions of use.
The verdict in the case of Dr. Raja Singh vs. Union of India & Others (OA No. 298/2023) came after a detailed review by a multi-disciplinary expert committee constituted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). The committee's assessment found no evidence that asbestos-cement sheets pose a health risk in non-industrial settings such as schools or private homes. Their report noted that while prolonged occupational exposure to high concentrations of asbestos dust can cause asbestosis, there is no evidence that asbestos cement roofs used in everyday life cause harmful effects – even after decades of use.
The experts added that the fiber content in the air was well below the permissible limits because asbestos fibers in cement boards are tightly bound in the cement matrix. This means the material remains unbreakable and stable. They said potential risks could be effectively managed through proper installation and removal practices.
The court emphasized that strict adherence to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) codes – IS 11769:1987 and IS 459:1992 – along with existing regulations keeps exposure within safe limits. It warned that unscientific bans could hamper affordable housing and rural infrastructure, where asbestos cement roofs remain a cost-effective and climate-resilient material.
Stressing the need for science-based policy decisions, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing scientific data and international best practices related to the use of asbestos within six months. This move underlines the Tribunal's commitment to ensuring that regulations on asbestos cement materials are based on credible evidence and not on precautionary bans without scientific support.
The NGT has also directed the ministry to revise or formulate guidelines for the controlled use of asbestos cement roofs and similar materials in schools, residential areas and other buildings. It also called for the development of detailed guidelines covering all phases – from manufacturing and installation to maintenance, dismantling and disposal – to meet environmental safety standards and protect public health.
Industry representatives welcomed the tribunal's ruling as an endorsement of responsible manufacturing and science-based regulation. “The NGT’s decision strengthens confidence in long-standing safety practices and sustainable production,” said an industry spokesman. “Asbestos cement sheets remain a durable and essential material that supports India’s affordable housing and infrastructure goals.”
Manufacturers also reiterated their continued commitment to maintaining high environmental standards, protecting workers' health and raising awareness about the safe handling and disposal of asbestos-based products.