Kochi Residents Face Higher Sanitary Waste Collection Charges After Contractor Increases Fees
Kochi residents, particularly households caring for elderly or bedridden members, face a sharp rise in bio-waste collection costs after the contracted agency increased fees from ₹12 per kg to ₹47 per kg. The hike, implemented after the new municipal council assumed office, has pushed disposal expenses above the cost of sanitary products themselves, placing a heavy financial burden on families. Authorities have promised relief once the Brahmapuram incinerator becomes fully operational.
The fee increase, enacted unilaterally by the contractor, follows the cessation of subsidies previously provided by the Kochi Corporation. While the earlier council had maintained the lower rate to ease household costs, the new administration’s tenure coincided with the contractor enforcing the revised pricing. For families relying on bio-waste collection services, the sudden escalation has translated into significant financial strain, especially during the peak holiday season when household budgets are already stretched.Mayor V K Minimol criticised the sudden hike, describing it as “unacceptable,” and emphasised that once the Brahmapuram incinerator becomes fully functional, bio-waste will be processed efficiently, and households will not be charged inflated fees. The incinerator, intended to handle large-scale sanitary and biomedical waste, is expected to stabilise costs while ensuring safe and environmentally responsible disposal practices.
Urban waste management experts highlight that the incident underscores the importance of structured regulatory frameworks in public-private partnerships. “Fee structures for essential services like sanitary-waste collection must account for socio-economic realities,” said an urban waste consultant. “Transparent communication and timely subsidy support are crucial to prevent undue burdens on vulnerable households.”The sharp increase also raises broader concerns about accessibility and equity in urban sanitation services. Sanitary waste management is not only vital for public health but also integral to sustainable urban living. Excessive fees risk discouraging proper disposal practices, potentially undermining both environmental and health outcomes. Authorities face the dual challenge of ensuring contractor sustainability while protecting citizen affordability and compliance.
For families, the immediate impact is a tangible financial strain, particularly for those caring for elderly or bedridden members who generate higher volumes of bio-waste. Interim measures, such as temporary subsidies or staggered rates, could alleviate the burden until the Brahmapuram facility operates at full capacity. Long-term, the city aims to integrate cost-effective, eco-friendly waste processing solutions to align with sustainable urban planning goals, balancing efficiency, environmental responsibility, and equitable access to essential services.
