Puducherry has initiated an ambitious endeavor aimed at achieving sustainable urban cleanliness through the introduction of a ₹110 crore Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) project.
This initiative signifies a notable departure from conventional waste management practices, with the goal of transforming the Union Territory’s waste management strategy in accordance with national goals of environmental sustainability and principles of a circular economy.
Central to the ISWM project is the shift from community-based waste collection to a decentralized, household-level collection system. This modification is intended to improve efficiency, encourage source segregation, and alleviate the pressure on landfills. The pilot phase of this model began on June 1, with comprehensive operations scheduled to commence on July 1. The Green Warrior Agency (GWA), assigned with the responsibility of executing the project, will manage all facets of waste management, which include door-to-door collection, segregation, transportation, processing, composting, recycling, and biogas production.
A fundamental aspect of the project is the creation of a cutting-edge waste processing facility at the Kurumbapet dump yard. Covering an area of 23 acres, the site is currently experiencing extensive infrastructure enhancements, which include the setup of a pyrolysis plant with a capacity of 60 tonnes per day and a Compressed Biogas (CBG) facility capable of processing 100 tonnes per day. These installations are anticipated to yield between 12 to 15 tonnes of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) and 2.5 tonnes of biogas on a daily basis. The biogas produced will be harnessed to generate electricity for the facility, thereby promoting energy self-sufficiency.
Furthermore, the facility will feature mechanised systems for waste segregation, which will facilitate efficient composting and recycling of materials such as plastics, wood, and other recoverable items. The final products, which will include paver blocks and compost, are intended to be marketed to various industries, thereby supporting a circular economy model. Acknowledging the crucial importance of community involvement in effective waste management, the project encompasses a thorough Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign.
GWA has launched awareness initiatives in residential neighborhoods, working in partnership with non-governmental organisations, residents’ associations, and educational institutions. The campaign utilizes a range of strategies, including street performances, visual awareness initiatives, and social media outreach, to inform residents about the significance of waste segregation and responsible disposal methods.
The Kurumbapet site, which was formerly a dumping ground, is currently undergoing biomining to recover land and reduce environmental risks. Since 2021, more than 10.5 lakh tonnes of legacy waste have been eliminated, resulting in the reclamation of 14 acres of land. The administration intends to develop a resource park and testing laboratory at the site, further improving its functionality and adherence to environmental standards.
Although the ISWM project signifies a major improvement in Puducherry’s waste management initiatives, officials recognize the difficulties involved in establishing a smooth door-to-door collection system throughout all urban regions.
It will be essential to ensure steady participation and adherence from residents for the project’s success. In summary, Puducherry’s ₹110 crore ISWM project serves as a model of a forward-thinking strategy for urban waste management, incorporating cutting-edge technologies, community involvement, and sustainable practices. As the project advances, it has the potential to serve as a standard for other cities in India aiming for cleaner, greener, and more sustainable urban settings.
