Kolkata: In a significant move towards sustainable urban management, New Town has been selected under the Centre’s ‘Cities 2.0’ programme, alongside 18 other cities nationwide, to develop an integrated solid waste management system. The New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) is poised to receive approximately Rs 135 crore for this initiative. The detailed project report (DPR) for the same is currently being prepared by experts from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-Kgp), which will subsequently be submitted to the central government for approval and implementation.
The proposed plan involves the establishment of three waste processing and recycling plants, one in each of New Town’s three Action Areas. An NKDA official stated, “The DPR on developing an integrated solid waste management system is being meticulously prepared by IIT-Kgp experts. This comprehensive plan will ensure efficient waste management and recycling, aiming for a zero-landfill approach.” Presently, New Town generates approximately 85 tonnes of waste daily. However, with the expansion of the NKDA and HIDCO planning areas, which now include peripheral neighbourhoods, this volume is expected to nearly triple. This necessitates a substantial increase in waste processing capacity to accommodate the growing demand. The new system will feature a robust door-to-door waste collection mechanism, where waste collection points will be strategically established in peripheral areas. From these points, waste will be transported to the nearest processing and recycling facilities.
The NKDA’s plan is comprehensive and aims at achieving zero landfill dumping. Wet or kitchen waste will be converted into compost, while dry and solid waste will be processed at material recovery facilities. A significant portion of the processed waste will be recycled, promoting a circular economy. Additionally, the project envisions the use of electric vehicles for waste collection and transportation to the processing units, further aligning with the sustainable development goals. This initiative underscores New Town’s commitment to environmental sustainability and efficient waste management. By adopting advanced waste processing technologies and practices, the NKDA aims to create a model of urban waste management that could potentially serve as a blueprint for other cities. The project not only addresses the immediate need for waste management infrastructure but also aligns with broader environmental goals, ensuring that New Town remains a clean, green, and sustainable urban area.
