Mumbai generates around 7,000 metric tonnes of solid waste daily, all of which is currently being dumped at the Kanjurmarg dumping ground. The accumulated waste here is equivalent to the height of a three-storey building every day. Over a year, this adds up to the height of nearly a thousand-storey building — posing a massive challenge for the BMC.
Municipal Commissioner Dr. Bhushan Gagrani stated that the BMC is now working on converting this waste into energy as a sustainable solution to the growing problem. He mentioned that after years of dumping, garbage mountains as high as 30 to 40 meters have formed at the site. With the Gorai and Mulund dumping grounds already shut down, Kanjurmarg remains the only viable site left for waste disposal.
To mitigate the impact on nearby residents, the BMC is storing waste scientifically within a designated landfill zone at Kanjurmarg, where the waste is processed using modern technology. Dr. Gagrani added that multiple technologies will be adopted for waste management, including gas extraction and electricity generation.
Electricity to Be Generated from Waste at Kanjurmarg
Managing and disposing of 7,000 metric tonnes of solid waste every day is one of Mumbai’s biggest civic challenges. To address this, the BMC is implementing state-of-the-art waste-to-energy technologies. Dr. Gagrani revealed that a waste-to-energy project with a capacity of 600 TPD (tonnes per day) is being set up at Deonar and is expected to become operational within two months. A similar project is also planned for the Kanjurmarg site.
Settlements Near Dumping Grounds
Historically, dumping grounds have been located on designated landfill sites. When Deonar dumping ground began operations in 1920, the area was largely uninhabited coastal land. Over time, however, human settlements have developed around the site. These areas now house scrap businesses that recycle materials such as paper, plastic, and metals found in the waste — eventually evolving into full-fledged residential settlements.
The BMC continues to work towards reducing the problems faced by residents living near dumping grounds. Issues such as air pollution and foul odors have serious long-term health effects. In response, measures like sealed garbage transport vehicles, restricted human access to dumping areas, and enhanced waste management practices are being enforced.
