Okechukwu Ibeanu said he would focus on how shipbreaking and the e-waste industry, which handles discarded electronic goods such as television sets, cellphones and computers, affected those who lived close to, or worked in the industries.

The business of breaking up old ships for scrap materials is a significant industry in India, Ibeanu said, noting that it "represents an important source of raw material supply and provides jobs to thousands of persons."

"Nevertheless, I continue to be concerned at the reportedly poor working practices and environmental conditions prevailing in most shipbreaking yards in South Asia," said the UN special rapporteur of the UN Human Rights Council.

Ibeanu would look into the risks posed by the unsound management and disposal of e-waste during the visit which will take him to the capital New Delhi, as well as Alang and Mumbai.

"E-waste is one of the most hazardous waste streams worldwide. Electronics contain over 50 hazardous chemicals or heavy metals that can cause serious health and environmental risks if not disposed in an environmentally safe manner," said the expert.

During the ten-day trip which starts on Monday, Ibeanu will meet government officials, and representatives in UN agencies, civil society organisations, trade unions and the private sector.

The expert would submit a report on the visit to the UN Human Rights Council in 2010.

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