Mumbai to Clear Deonar Dump with Rs 2540 Crore Legacy Waste Project
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a monumental ₹2,540 crore project for the scientific bioremediation of 185 lakh tonnes of legacy waste at the Deonar Dumping Ground. This ambitious undertaking, awarded to Navayuga Engineering Ltd as the lowest bidder, marks a critical turning point for India’s oldest and largest dumping site, operational since 1927. The comprehensive plan aims to transform 110 hectares of contaminated land, addressing a long-standing environmental and public health challenge and propelling Mumbai towards its goals of becoming a cleaner, more eco-friendly, and sustainable urban centre.
The project’s financial outlay, at ₹2,540 crore, stands slightly above BMC’s initial estimate of ₹2,368 crore, translating to a per-tonne processing cost of ₹1,373.35. Despite the increased cost, the investment is deemed essential for mitigating decades of environmental degradation. The contract, spanning three years, incorporates provisions for mobilisation and accounts for the annual monsoon periods, reflecting a pragmatic approach to a complex engineering and ecological challenge. This long-term commitment is vital for ensuring the thorough and effective remediation of the site, which has historically posed significant environmental burdens on surrounding communities.
The scope of the tender is extensive, encompassing the scientific treatment and removal of the colossal volume of legacy waste. This includes the meticulous excavation of landfill material, followed by advanced bioremediation and segregation processes. Crucially, the plan involves the transportation of inert material and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) to various users, promoting resource recovery and contributing to a circular economy. Furthermore, robust leachate and odour management systems are integral to the project, directly addressing the pervasive public health and quality of life issues faced by residents living in proximity to the dump.
Deonar Dumping Ground, spanning an area between 126 and 132 hectares and reaching an estimated height of 35-40 metres, has long been a symbol of urban waste management challenges. The accumulated garbage comprises approximately 40 per cent inert waste, 48 per cent soiled waste, 10 per cent dry waste, and 2 per cent metal. The High Court’s directive in 2013 to close the Deonar and Mulund dumping grounds underscored the urgency of such remediation efforts. The gradual reduction of waste dumped at Deonar over the years, coupled with the recent approval to hand over a portion for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, highlights a broader strategic vision for land reclamation and integrated urban planning.
The successful execution of this project is paramount for Mumbai’s environmental future. Beyond the immediate benefits of waste clearance, the bioremediation and land reclamation will free up valuable urban land, potentially for green spaces or other community-centric developments, contributing to a more equitable city. It represents a significant stride towards achieving zero net carbon emissions by converting waste into usable resources and reducing methane emissions from landfills. This initiative not only promises a healthier living environment for millions but also sets a precedent for responsible waste management in rapidly urbanising coastal cities across India, demonstrating a firm commitment to sustainable development.
