*Chandigarh Accelerates Efforts in Waste Management as per NGT Orders: Review Meeting Highlights Progress*
In compliance with the directives of the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal (NGT) through O.A.No.606/2018 dated 18th May 2023, a comprehensive review meeting was conducted on 8th August 2023. The meeting, chaired by the esteemed Adviser to the Administrator, was organized to evaluate the advancements made in the domains of Liquid Waste Management (LWM) and Solid Waste Management (SWM) within the city. Key decisions and progress updates from the meeting are as follows:
*Liquid Waste Management*
Chandigarh remains steadfast in its commitment to effective Liquid Waste Management for the well-being of both its populace and the environment. The discussions encompassed the following key points:
1. Among the eight Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) established, five have already been brought in line with the latest norms for efficient wastewater management. The remaining three STPs are currently undergoing upgrades to meet the new norms, with completion targeted by 15th September 2023.
2. Ensuring rigorous monitoring and efficient operation, the Adviser to the Administrator instructed the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MCC) and the Engineering Department to equip all STPs under their purview with the Online Continuous Effluent Monitoring System (OCEMS) and flow meters at both the inlet and outlet points. Furthermore, the directive was issued for the implementation of a performance-based Operation and Maintenance (O&M) mechanism across all STPs.
3. Aiming to enhance the distribution of treated wastewater, MCC announced the initiation of a tender process for establishing a Tertiary Treated (TT) water distribution network. The tender, scheduled to conclude on 24th August 2023, marks a pivotal step towards optimum utilization of TT water by industrial sectors, bulk users, and various facilities. The network is projected to be operational within 18 months of allotment.
*Solid Waste Management*
Chandigarh continues to make strides in responsible Solid Waste Management. The meeting yielded discussions on the following key aspects:
1. Highlighting its ongoing efforts, MCC revealed that comprehensive processing of dry waste is being executed. However, limitations in space have posed challenges in processing the entire volume of wet waste generated. To address this, a tender has been initiated for the construction of a temporary shed that will accommodate facilities for processing up to 250 Tons Per Day (TPD) of wet waste. The projected completion and commissioning date for this endeavor is 31st December 2023. Additionally, an ambitious Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) facility is in the works, projected to be operational by December 2025.
2. The proper disposal of sanitary and domestic hazardous waste remains a priority. Authorized Bio-medical Waste Treatment Facilities manage sanitary waste, while the collected domestic hazardous waste is efficiently processed at authorized Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities (TSDF) situated in Nimbua, Punjab.
3. With sustainability at its core, the 30 TPD Horticulture Waste Processing Plant successfully transforms pruned horticulture waste into bio-briquettes, which serve as fuel. MCC has initiated the process of tendering for the sale of these eco-friendly bio-briquettes.
4. Demonstrating its commitment to environmentally conscious practices, Chandigarh has successfully completed the bio-remediation of the old dump site (20 acres), while ongoing efforts are underway for the bio-remediation of the current landfill site (8.68 acres), projected for completion. NGT has suggested to complete the work as soon as possible.
Chandigarh’s resolute dedication to advancing sustainable waste management practices remains undeterred. These endeavors align closely with the directives of the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal, underscoring the city’s commitment to a greener future.
