The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMCC) emerges as a leader of innovation and efficiency in waste management. Spanning across 110 square kilometres and home to over 1.5 million residents, the corporation has embraced a holistic approach to waste management, ensuring that every aspect of the process is meticulously planned and executed.
NMMC has implemented a robust waste management model that encompasses door-to-door waste collection, source-level segregation, and the use of completely enclosed vehicles for waste transportation. This not only ensures cleanliness and hygiene but also guarantees that waste is properly sorted and treated before disposal.
The city boasts a daily processing capacity of 400 tonnes of dry waste, 350 tonnes of wet waste, and 150 tonnes of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, achieving an impressive 100% solid waste processing rate. A mere 8-10% of inert waste ends up in landfills, showcasing the city’s commitment to minimising its environmental footprint.
Our journey towards a sustainable future is marked by innovation and community participation. We have transformed Navi Mumbai with environment-friendly waste management practices, achieving 100% solid waste processing and significantly reducing our landfill dependency.”
Dr Babasaheb Rajale
Dr Babasaheb Rajale, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (SWM) & Nodal Officer-Swachh Bharat Mission at NMMC, highlights the city’s innovative initiatives, such as the ‘Zero Waste Slum’ project, which involves women’s self-help groups in waste collection and processing from 18,000 households across 9 slums. This initiative not only empowers women but also contributes to the city’s waste reduction efforts, saving approximately Rs. 8 lakhs per slum in waste processing expenses.
The ‘Dry Waste Passbook’ program is another commendable initiative, encouraging students to collect plastic bags and bottles, and rewarding their efforts with points and prizes. This not only promotes recycling but also fosters a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship among the younger generation.
Dr Rajale also sheds light on the city’s plans, which include becoming septic-tank free and utilising 100% recycled water. He emphasises the importance of the 3I Platform, bringing together Incubators (NGOs), Innovators (Students), and Implementers (Municipal corporations) on one platform to drive innovation in waste management.
With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, Navi Mumbai is setting new standards in urban waste management, proving that a cleaner, greener future is within reach.
