Recycling centers use state-of-the-art machines to sort and reuse the waste
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, May 23, 2025: Mumbai is one of the fastest-developing metropolitan cities in the country. The city constantly witnesses new building constructions, road widening, and various development projects. As a result, a significant amount of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste is generated.
C&D Waste Management in Mumbai
Currently, Mumbai produces an estimated 8,500 metric tons of C&D waste daily. If not managed properly, this waste can have serious consequences on the environment and public health. Illegal dumping leads to roads, grounds, and public spaces getting filled with debris. This not only affects the aesthetics but also deteriorates air quality, contaminates water sources, and poses health risks. Recognizing this situation, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken an important step towards effective C&D waste management. Under this initiative, BMC aims to process 1,200 tons of C&D waste daily.
A Step Towards a Clean and Sustainable Future
This effort will not only reduce illegal dumping but also promote a circular economy in the city. Usable materials will be segregated from the waste and repurposed. This will provide eco-friendly alternatives in the construction sector and reduce dependency on natural resources. A key feature of this BMC project is that it is being implemented in accordance with the 2016 rules laid down by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Moreover, Mumbai has set a goal of sustainable waste management by 2025, and this initiative is a crucial part of it.
Mumbai divided into two zones
To ensure effective implementation across the city, Mumbai has been divided into two zones – Slice A (South Mumbai and Eastern Suburbs) and Slice B (Western Suburbs). In both zones, waste is being segregated, processed, and reused using advanced technologies. This initiative has brought several key benefits. Firstly, illegal dumping has reduced significantly. With the help of a mobile app, the waste is tracked, and strict monitoring helps in controlling unauthorized disposal. This keeps roads and public places cleaner. Secondly, the circular economy is boosted. Useful components are extracted from the C&D waste and reused. This includes materials like sand, cement mix, gravel, paver blocks, and curbstones which are useful in construction. These products are made available in the local market, benefitting the construction sector significantly.
Environmental perspective
From an environmental perspective, this project is extremely important. The initiative has contributed to reducing carbon emissions and pollution caused by C&D waste. Public awareness is being created through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns to further reduce pollution. Additionally, the initiative has created new local employment opportunities. The sale of processed materials also benefits the local economy.
Recycling centers
Separate recycling centers have been set up in both Slice A and Slice B. These centers use state-of-the-art machines to sort and reuse the waste. Notably, waste up to 500 kg can be picked up free of cost. These centers provide various grades of gravel and sand derived from C&D waste. This includes gravel of 3–8 mm, 8–20 mm, and larger sizes, as well as sand of 0.75–3 mm. All these materials are highly useful for the construction sector. Using recycled materials not only has environmental benefits but also helps reduce construction costs. BMC's initiative has received a positive response from citizens. Through the "Debris on Call" system, convenient services are provided for managing C&D waste in various areas. However, illegal dumping is still seen in some regions. Therefore, Mumbaikars need to take a more active part in this initiative.
Greater use of recycled materials
To curb illegal dumping and encourage eco-friendly construction, greater use of recycled materials is essential. Sustainable waste management is crucial in a metropolitan city like Mumbai. Through this initiative, BMC is moving towards making Mumbai a cleaner, more beautiful, and eco-friendly city. If everyone contributes to effective C&D waste management, the dream of a truly clean and green Mumbai can be realized.
