Chennai's decentralised waste revolution: A community-driven solution

18 Oct 2023 CW Team

Chennai has long grappled with the daunting task of effectively managing its waste amidst significant challenges. The city's rapid population growth, urban expansion, and increased industrialisation have led to a substantial surge in daily waste generation.

In response to these challenges, Chennai embarked on a transformative journey to revamp its waste management strategies. One of the key initiatives was the shift from the traditional tipping fee model to a decentralised waste management approach. Central to this transformation is the widespread adoption of Battery-Operated Vehicles (BOVs), eco-friendly vehicles that have become a common sight in both residential and commercial areas, playing a vital role in waste collection.

This innovative system emphasises the importance of source segregation, urging residents to categorise waste into three main types: wet waste, dry waste, and domestic hazardous waste. These segregated waste streams find their way to Micro Composting Centres (MCCs) and Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), while the remaining waste is either incinerated or sent to landfills. The primary goal of this approach is to significantly reduce the amount of waste reaching the landfills in Perungudi and Kodungaiyur.

Two concessionaires, Urbaser Sumeet and Ramky Enviro, have taken charge of collecting segregated waste in south and north Chennai respectively. Additionally, the Greater Chennai Corporation oversees waste management in three zones, actively participating in this decentralised system.

Crucially, community participation forms the backbone of this decentralised approach. Raising awareness about source segregation and ensuring that different types of waste reach the appropriate facilities remain ongoing challenges in this initiative.

Real Estate

03 Sep 2025

Maharashtra to Revise Infrastructure Policies

The Government of Maharashtra will make every possible effort to frame infrastructure-related policies, including those that promote housing in the state, in line with changing requirements. This assurance was given by Mrs. Meghana Sakore Bordikar, Minister of State, Government of Maharashtra, while addressing the two-day NAREDCO 17th National Convention, “India Builds: Reimagining Growth through Real Estate and Infrastructure”. At the convention, Dr Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman of NAREDCO, called for a new blueprint for infrastructure policies in the present context.The Minister assured..

Agami Realty Enters Mumbai's Luxury Market

Agami Realty, a leading real estate developer with a legacy of over five decades, has marked its foray into Mumbai’s luxury residential market with two significant redevelopment projects in Bandra, valued at an estimated Rs 9.5 billion. The company, known for its boutique developments that blend sustainability, technology, and design excellence, has already received a strong response to its Bandra offering.Agami Eternity, the firm’s first completed premium redevelopment project in Mumbai, recently received its Occupancy Certificate. Located in Bandra East, the project was designed by inter..

Hafele Launches Its Third Licht Experience Centre in India

Hafele, a global leader in interior solutions, has announced the launch of its third Licht Experience Centre in Ahmedabad. This new centre, located at 302, 31 Five, Opp. Palladium, Corporate Road, Makarba, follows the successful openings in Chandigarh and Indore, further strengthening Hafele's footprint in India. The name “Licht,” which means “light” in German, captures the essence of this experience, where technology meets aesthetics to redefine interior spaces.The Ahmedabad Licht Experience Centre was inaugurated by Mr Frank Schloeder, Managing Director of Hafele South Asia, and Mr P..