New Delhi, 24.12.2025 : The National Green Tribunal has taken on record a fresh progress report submitted by the Indian Council of Medical Research on the ongoing scientific study examining health risks linked to exposure to flame-retardant chemicals inside vehicles. The case is being monitored in a suo motu proceeding initiated after a media report raised concerns about cancer-causing chemicals present in car interiors.
The matter was considered by a Bench led by Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava along with Expert Member Dr. A. Senthil Vel. The Tribunal recalled that in earlier hearings, Indian Council of Medical Research had informed the Tribunal that the proposed study would require 18 months, as it involved collection and analysis of biological samples to assess potential health risks to drivers. Based on that disclosure, ICMR was directed to periodically report progress.
In its additional affidavit dated December 22, 2025, ICMR stated that work on the sanctioned project formally began on September 24, 2025. During the first three months, the recruitment process was completed, with two Project Technicians-III joining on November 3, 2025, and an Office Helper joining on December 4, 2025.
ICMR also informed the Tribunal that procurement of key chemicals and consumables required for the study had been carried out. These included solvents such as acetonitrile, n-hexane and methanol, along with formic acid, sodium chloride, magnesium sulphate and LC-MS grade water. Certified Reference Materials for the three flame-retardant compounds under study were also procured. According to the affidavit, procurement of flame-retardant metabolites and additional consumables required for sample collection and analysis is currently underway.
On the field side, visits were conducted to two vehicle agencies in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, identified as hot and arid zones, to begin enrolment of participants. ICMR further stated that procurement of essential LC-MS equipment needed for chemical analysis is in progress.
During the hearing, Dr. Sivaperumal, Scientist-E, submitted that the study is moving as per the disclosed timeline and is expected to be completed within the stipulated 18-month period.
Taking note of the submissions and progress made, the National Green Tribunal directed ICMR to file another progress report at least one week before the next hearing. The matter has been listed for further consideration on April 28, 2026.
