The Bathinda Deputy Commissioner (DC) has rejected a proposal to establish a municipal solid waste landfill on 36.81 acres of land acquired in 2011 at Mandi Khurd village, accepting a plea from local residents. The decision was formalized through a speaking order issued in compliance with directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had instructed the DC to review the villagers' representation and deliver a reasoned verdict.
Background of the Land Acquisition
Approximately 36.81 acres at Mandi Khurd were acquired by the Bathinda Municipal Corporation (MC) in 2011 for the development of a sanitary landfill under the Integrated Solid Waste Management Project. However, the project was halted after the High Court ordered a status quo in 2012, and the landfill was never constructed. The land remained unused for over a decade, prompting villagers to seek its repurposing.
Current Waste Management Situation
According to reports submitted by the Bathinda MC, Maur Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), and other officials, the city's municipal waste is currently managed at a temporary 10-acre landfill located near the waste processing plant on Mansa Road. Bathinda generates approximately 120 to 125 metric tonnes (MT) of garbage daily. The report stated that the existing site has sufficient capacity to handle the city's waste until 2035, making the proposed landfill unnecessary.
Changes in Waste Management System
The report also highlighted that the earlier cluster-based waste management system, which involved neighboring urban local bodies, is no longer operational. This reduction in waste volume further diminished the need for the proposed landfill at Mandi Khurd. Additionally, over the past 15 years, several residential projects and a school have been established near the acquired land, rendering the site unsuitable for a landfill due to environmental and health concerns.
Deputy Commissioner's Order
In his order, the DC stated: "I am satisfied that the land at village Mandi Khurd, though acquired in 2011 following due procedure and after obtaining approvals from all environmental committees and competent authorities at the local, state and central government levels, is no longer required for the establishment or operation of a sanitary landfill facility, as several new developments have taken place over the past 15 years." The DC accepted the villagers' request that no landfill be established on the site, subject to the outcome of pending court cases and government policy.
Recommendations for Alternative Use
The DC recommended that the land be considered for alternative public projects, including agro-industries, a biotechnology park or institute, or a solar energy project. These initiatives could generate employment and revenue for the region. He directed the Municipal Commissioner to present the order before the competent authority for a final decision on the future use of the land.
