India is drowning in construction and demolition (C&D) waste, with estimates ranging from 150 to 500 million tonne annually. This waste clogs roadsides, pollutes water bodies, and worsens air quality across urban areas. In response, the government has introduced a crucial policy shift through newly notified rules that will take effect from April 2026.

Under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, developers of building projects exceeding 20,000 sq m must sustainably manage and recycle their construction waste. However, weak regulation, lack of designated disposal areas, and improper waste segregation have led to rampant illegal dumping.

While the construction sector is poised to hit US$ 1.4 trillion by 2025, its waste footprint is also growing. For instance, the National Capital Region alone generates over 6,000 tonne of C&D waste daily. Though some are processed, many regions lack proper tracking and treatment systems.

Experts argue that beyond compliance, India needs incentives like green procurement policies, tax breaks for recycled materials, and updated building codes to encourage circularity. Public awareness and better infrastructure will be key to building sustainably on reclaimed rubble.