Garden Waste Disposal Challenges Persist in Chennai Neighbourhoods
Residents across Chennai are raising serious concerns over the inefficient disposal of garden waste, which continues to clog stormwater drains and impact overall civic hygiene. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has been urged to take immediate action to clear the accumulating debris, particularly in tree-rich areas like Anna Nagar. According to local welfare associations, the delay in garden waste clearance has led to significant drainage blockages, particularly as monsoon approaches. The lack of prompt intervention has intensified worries over urban flooding, as clogged drains are unable to efficiently divert rainwater. Residents are now demanding a structured plan for timely pruning, waste collection, and disposal, alongside enhanced mechanisation to manage the growing burden of green waste.
Demand for Wood Chopper Machines and Efficient Collection
One of the key demands from civic groups is the introduction of wood chopper machines in each GCC zone to expedite waste disposal. Ward 104 Councillor T.V. Shemmozhi highlighted that the shortage of transport vehicles often results in delays in clearing tree trimmings, leading to waste accumulation for days. A proposed solution involves chopping garden waste into smaller pieces, enabling easier transport and disposal. “If the wood is cut into two-inch pieces, it will optimise transportation and improve efficiency,” he explained. The estimated cost per machine is ₹15 lakh, and residents are urging the GCC to initiate a pilot project in Anna Nagar to assess its feasibility. This highlights the broader urban waste management challenge in Chennai, where manual systems struggle to cope with rising volumes of organic waste. The proposal underscores the need for technological interventions to enhance waste collection, aligning with global best practices in urban sanitation.
Civic and Sustainability Implications of Waste Mismanagement
Beyond the immediate inconvenience, delayed garden waste disposal raises sustainability concerns. Unattended green waste decomposes inefficiently, contributing to airborne pollutants and methane emissions. Moreover, improper waste dumping often leads to illegal burning, exacerbating air pollution—an issue Chennai has been battling, particularly in the winter months. In contrast, cities like Bengaluru and Pune have successfully implemented community composting initiatives, turning garden waste into organic fertiliser for urban gardens. Chennai, with its expanding green cover, could benefit from similar models, integrating composting solutions within local wards. If implemented, this would not only address waste accumulation but also promote sustainable waste management practices, aligning with India’s broader environmental goals.
GCC’s Expansion of Construction Debris Collection Services
In addition to tackling garden waste, the GCC is rolling out a structured plan for construction debris collection, a long-pending issue due to legal disputes with concessionaires. Civic officials confirmed that a resolution has been reached, enabling debris collection to resume in key zones such as Manali, Valasaravakkam, and Ambattur. The GCC has already collected 19,000 tonnes of construction debris, repurposing it into M-sand for construction. Residents can now request debris removal via helpline 1913, streamlining the process and reducing illegal dumping of construction waste. As Chennai expands, managing both green and inorganic waste efficiently will be crucial in sustaining urban hygiene and ensuring a healthier, more liveable cityscape.
