In Mangaluru's Someshwara Town Municipality, a planned Material Recovery Facility (MRF) has become a point of contention between local authorities and residents of Bagambila ward. Despite strong objections from the community over potential environmental and health risks, the urban local body is moving forward with the project, asserting it will use scientifically safe methods.
Resident Objections and Municipal Assurance
The conflict arose after the municipality identified land within Bagambila ward for the MRF. Residents promptly submitted a formal memorandum, voicing fears that the facility would lead to environmental damage and pose significant health hazards to the local population. Their primary concern stemmed from a misunderstanding that the site would handle wet waste, similar to a traditional dumping yard.
Addressing these concerns, Someshwara Municipality Chief Officer Mathadi clarified the project's scope. He stated that the MRF, with an estimated cost of Rs 55 lakh, is being developed under the central government's Swachh Bharat Mission. Its sole purpose is to manage the dry waste collected from across the municipality. The government has reserved 1.2 acres of land for this facility, which will share the space with a water supply unit. Construction work has already commenced on the site.
Scientific Methods and Safety Protocols Explained
Chief Officer Mathadi emphasized that the facility is not a solid waste management plant for wet garbage. "We have convinced the residents by providing them with the details of the MRF, where no wet waste will be processed," he explained. The unit will exclusively handle recyclable dry waste, segregating it using scientific methods.
To further alleviate fears, the officer detailed the safety measures in place. The entire MRF operation will be conducted within a closed shed, preventing any exposure to the open environment. This design, according to officials, eliminates risks of environmental pollution or health hazards. A key assurance given was that no sewage or wastewater from the facility will flow into nearby areas, safeguarding the community's health.
Communication and Project Timeline
In a bid to build trust, the municipality has proactively engaged with the concerned citizens. A detailed letter outlining the safety and scientific aspects of the MRF has been handed over to residents of both Bagambila and Kumpala, who were part of the objection memorandum.
"They have been convinced by giving information about the project, and the project will be completed soon," Chief Officer Mathadi added, expressing confidence that the dialogue has addressed the core concerns. The municipality's stance is that the MRF is a crucial step towards scientific and hygienic dry waste management, aligning with national cleanliness goals, and will ultimately benefit the ward and the larger municipality.
