Model Answer

With rapid urbanisation and changing consumption patterns, India generates over 1.6 lakh tonnes of municipal solid waste daily. Effective Solid Waste Management (SWM) is critical for public health, environmental sustainability and achieving SDG 11.

Challenges associated with solid waste management

1. Poor segregation of waste at source continues despite the mandate under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.
2. Inadequate processing infrastructure results in excessive dependence on landfills and open dumping.
3. Legacy waste accumulation at sites such as Ghazipur and Bhalswa creates environmental and health hazards.
4. Financial and technical constraints limit the capacity of Urban Local Bodies to manage waste efficiently.
5. Rising plastic and e-waste generation has emerged as a major challenge, as highlighted by CPCB reports.

Measures to improve solid waste management

1. Ensure universal source segregation through effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.
2. Expand composting, recycling and waste-to-energy infrastructure under Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0.
3. Promote circular economy practices in line with NITI Aayog's Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy framework.
4. Strengthen Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic and electronic waste management.
5. Integrate waste pickers into formal waste management systems (Niti Aayog)

Effective solid waste management requires a shift from waste disposal to resource recovery. Strengthening local governance, infrastructure and citizen participation can help build cleaner and more sustainable cities.