In an era marked by rapid urbanisation and escalating waste generation, Indian cities are standing at a critical crossroads, necessitating innovative and sustainable waste management solutions. Mrigank Warrier brings into focus the groundbreaking strategies adopted by municipal corporations across the country, as they rise to the challenge of managing burgeoning waste in an eco-friendly manner. This cover story unravels the initiatives undertaken by five municipal corporations – Navi Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Vasai-Virar and Ulhasnagar – providing a panoramic view of their unique approaches, successes, and the challenges they encounter in their relentless pursuit of cleaner, more sustainable urban spaces.