Mangaluru City Corporation Moves to Curb Rampant Construction Waste Dumping
In response to the persistent and rampant dumping of construction and demolition (C&D) waste in vacant plots and along riverbanks, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) is actively considering a strategic solution. The civic body is mulling over the reservation of dedicated land at the Pachanady dump yard premises to manage C&D waste in a scientific and systematic manner.
New Measures to Enforce Compliance and Prevent Violations
To address the ongoing violations, the MCC has conducted several high-level meetings and reached a decisive plan. The corporation intends to establish a formal facility at Pachanady where builders can dispose of C&D waste after paying a specified management charge. This initiative aims to create a regulated environment for waste handling.
Furthermore, the MCC has resolved to implement stringent measures to deter illegal dumping in public spaces. This includes the imposition of hefty penalties on offenders, particularly targeting trucks that discard waste improperly. The move is designed to curb the environmental hazards posed by such activities.
Official Statements and Stakeholder Engagement
DC Darshan HV, who also serves as the administrator of MCC, provided insights into the corporation's efforts. He revealed that the MCC has engaged in discussions with builders' associations, including CREDAI, to address the management of C&D waste. During these meetings, it was highlighted that waste is frequently dumped along the banks of the Nethravati and Gurupur rivers, with some trucks even disposing of waste in rural areas.
"Builders have been blaming contractors, who were paid to transport C&D waste from construction sites, for these violations," the DC stated. "They claim that contractors agree to transport the waste to cement factories and other recycling facilities but often fail to adhere to these agreements. However, we have directed builders to ensure that C&D waste is not dumped in public places or near rivers."
Future Plans and Technological Integration
The city corporation's plans include reserving a specific section of the Pachanady waste dumping yard exclusively for C&D waste management. Builders will be required to transport their waste to this facility after paying a fixed fee to the MCC. This approach is expected to streamline waste disposal and promote recycling efforts.
In addition to these measures, the MCC has earmarked Rs 2 crore in its 2026-27 budget for an advanced action plan. This plan involves the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras at identified locations to monitor waste dumping, enhance traffic management, and improve overall safety. The surveillance system aims to track and prevent illegal dumping activities effectively.
The combination of a dedicated disposal site, financial penalties, and technological surveillance represents a comprehensive strategy by the Mangaluru City Corporation to tackle the longstanding issue of illegal C&D waste dumping, protecting the city's environment and public health.
