BMC to Implement Stricter Waste Management Rules and User Fees for Large Events Under New 2026 Norms
In a significant move to enhance urban cleanliness, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to introduce stricter solid waste management regulations, including a user fee for events with over 100 attendees and penalties for non-compliance. This initiative aligns with the newly notified Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, by the Central government, which will be enforced nationwide from April 1, 2026.
Key Changes Under the New SWM Rules, 2026
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has replaced the decade-old SWM Rules, 2016, with updated norms that mandate:
- Four-stream segregation of waste at source, including a new category for domestic hazardous waste such as used diapers, sanitary napkins, and condoms.
- Clearly defined responsibilities for bulk waste generators, including residential complexes and universities.
- Segregated collection of domestic hazardous waste in yellow bins.
These rules apply to all urban and rural local bodies across India, aiming to improve waste processing and reduce landfill burdens.
BMC's Proposed Measures and Penalties
Senior BMC officials have outlined several measures to comply with the new norms:
- Enforcement of four-way waste segregation, with a focus on domestic hazardous waste collection.
- On-site waste processing for bulk generators, defined as establishments spanning over 20,000 sq m, consuming more than 40,000 litres of water daily, or generating at least 100 kg of waste per day.
- Fines of up to Rs 10,000 for bulk waste generators failing to process waste at source as per the new rules.
According to BMC records, only 5,596 establishments in Mumbai have registered for sanitary and special care waste collection as of January 2026, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement.
Introduction of User Fees and Waste-to-Energy Initiatives
The BMC is also planning to introduce a user fee for managing waste at gatherings with more than 100 people, a move aimed at covering the costs of waste management services. Additionally, the civic body will focus on commissioning waste-to-energy facilities in the coming months to process waste efficiently and alleviate pressure on landfills.
While the new bylaws allow for a solid waste tax, BMC officials have assured that no such fee will be introduced in Mumbai, considering concerns raised by citizens and political representatives. This decision follows the withdrawal of a similar proposal in April 2025 after public criticism.
Challenges and Future Outlook
BMC officials noted that previous voluntary programs for domestic hazardous waste collection received feeble responses, but the new rules empower them to make these measures mandatory. With the notification of the updated bylaws, the BMC aims to float proposals for penalties on non-compliant segments, ensuring better waste management practices across the city.
This comprehensive approach underscores BMC's commitment to aligning with national standards and addressing Mumbai's waste management challenges effectively.
