The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has reported progress in bio-mining and remediation at the three legacy dump sites Bhalswa, Okhla and Ghazipur after a review by the Union minister of state for road transport and highways and the city mayor. Officials said 95 acres have been reclaimed, comprising 45 acres at Bhalswa, 30 acres at Okhla and 20 acres at Ghazipur. The meeting reviewed the roadmap for solid waste and cattle dung management and the civic body presented a status report on operations since July 2022.

From July 2022 to July 2026 the MCD has bio-mined 21.26 million (mn) tonnes (t) of waste, indicating steady progress in addressing environmental liabilities. Bids have been invited for the third phase covering 10.95 million (mn) tonnes (t), a step intended to facilitate complete liquidation of remaining deposits. Officials said the phase will accelerate remediation and remove decades old garbage mountains.

The Union minister of state directed officials to speed up bio-mining and remediation, particularly at Ghazipur, and to complete the project before the deadline, emphasising that remediation is critical to improving environmental quality and reclaiming urban land. He asked for close monitoring, prioritising removal of operational bottlenecks and strict adherence to quality standards while maintaining efficiency. The mayor pledged renewed focus on timely implementation of approved projects and on achieving complete remediation through environmentally sustainable methods.

Officials also outlined plans for scientific management of cattle dung to promote cleaner waste practices across the capital. They said reclaimed land is expected to improve the urban environment and sustainable land utilisation, and that continued oversight and phased contracting will be necessary to meet objectives. Further reviews will monitor progress and resolve operational issues.