Uttarakhand Introduces Four-Way Waste Segregation

Uttarakhand has introduced a new waste management system with four-way segregation, digital monitoring and strict rules for bulk waste generators.

The new system, under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, aims to enhance transparency and accountability in waste management.

Dr Parag Madhukar Dhakate, Member Secretary, Pollution Control Board, said that the quantity of waste is increasing with rapid urbanisation and it is essential to take scientific and data-driven approaches to manage waste.

The new rules emphasize segregating waste into four streams - wet, dry, sanitary and special-care waste.

The responsibilities of Bulk Waste Generators have also been strengthened, with a provision for Extended Bulk Waste Generators Responsibility.

The Rules provide for online monitoring of waste collection, transportation, processing and disposal, along with digital registration and reporting.

Recycling and reuse have been prioritised, while landfill has been kept as the last resort.

Dr Dhakate said that 100 per cent door-to-door waste collection is being provided across 1,314 wards under 108 Urban Local Bodies in Uttarakhand.

Around 1,515 vehicles are currently available, while procurement of additional vehicles is underway.

New vehicles are being equipped with four compartments for four-stream segregation.

Source segregation has already been initiated in 1,225 wards.

Approximately 1,930.85 metric tonnes of waste is generated daily in the state, of which 1,804.59 metric tonnes (93.46 per cent) is processed every day.

A total of 61 legacy waste/dumpsites have been identified, and the state aims to accelerate legacy waste treatment and dumpsite remediation by December 2026.

The state currently has 85 Material Recovery Facilities, 663 NADEP/compost pits and 87 plastic compactors in operation, while 1,058 Bulk Waste Generators have been identified.

A Vehicle Location Tracking System is being implemented to monitor waste collection and transportation, with all municipal corporations being covered in the first phase.

Shri Praveen Kumar, Additional Director, Urban Development, referred to the directions of the Supreme Court regarding effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules.

The new system is expected to improve waste management in Uttarakhand and reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal.

The state's efforts to manage waste effectively are crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

The success of the new system will depend on the active participation of public representatives, citizens and bulk waste generators.