Mumbai, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has announced that 60% of its integrated solid waste processing project, with a capacity of 600 tons per day, has been completed in Badlapur. This initiative aims to establish a modern waste management system for the cities of Ambernath, Kalyan-Badlapur, and Ulhasnagar.
According to MMRDA, the project is a part of the KfW-supported Mumbai Metropolitan Region Urban Infrastructure Improvement Program (MMRUIIP). It is designed to provide a long-term solution to the waste management challenges faced by these three cities, promoting clean, environmentally friendly, and sustainable urban development.
The project will process 600 tons of municipal solid waste daily using scientific methods. State-of-the-art facilities are being developed in Badlapur, which will include a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) for sorting and recovering recyclable materials, specialized arrangements for the disposal of biodegradable waste, and a scientifically designed sanitary landfill for safe disposal of residual waste. This initiative is being executed under the design-build-operate-transfer (DBOT) model.
Recyclable materials such as paper, plastics, metals, and glass will be recovered and recycled. Additionally, compost will be produced from biodegradable waste, and Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) will be generated from suitable waste.
Officials indicate that the project will reduce pressure on natural resources and promote a circular economy. It is also expected to significantly decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Once operational, the project will minimize open dumping and reliance on traditional dumping grounds. This will help control issues related to odor, disease-carrying pests, and fire hazards.
Furthermore, the scientific processing of organic waste is expected to lower methane emissions. Proper treatment of leachate will also help protect soil and groundwater from pollution.
MMRDA stated that the project will create direct and indirect employment opportunities during its construction and operation phases. Efforts will be made to integrate informal waste pickers into the formal waste management system, providing them with safe and dignified employment. This is expected to strengthen the regional recycling industry.
To ensure effective implementation, MMRDA is continuously coordinating with various urban bodies, KfW Development Bank, project management consultants, contractors, and technical agencies. Regular review meetings, legal approvals, removal of previously accumulated waste, controlled blasting, development of supporting infrastructure, and equipment installation are being closely monitored to expedite construction.
With 60% of the work completed, MMRDA is optimistic about the project’s swift progress towards establishing a robust, scientific, and sustainable waste management system for Ambernath, Kalyan-Badlapur, and Ulhasnagar.
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