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Municipal solid waste characteristics and management in Allahabad, India
Mufeed Sharholy1, Kafeel Ahmad, R C Vaishya
1Department of Civil Engineering, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, India.
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|June 13, 2006
Summary
Indian cities face growing municipal solid waste (MSW) challenges due to population and economic growth. This study analyzed MSW characteristics and used GIS mapping to aid municipal solid waste management in Allahabad.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Planning
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Background:
- Rapid urbanization and economic development in Indian cities lead to increased municipal solid waste (MSW) generation.
- Inadequate MSW management poses significant environmental and public health risks to urban populations.
- Understanding the quantitative and qualitative aspects of MSW is crucial for effective waste management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Allahabad.
- To collect baseline data on MSW generation, collection, and disposal practices.
- To develop Geographic Information System (GIS) maps to visualize and analyze MSW management parameters.
Main Methods:
- Random sampling of MSW from various locations for characterization.
- Questionnaire surveys to gather data on household waste generation, collection frequency, and resident satisfaction.
- Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) for data analysis, digitization of ward boundaries, and mapping of disposal sites.
Main Results:
- The total MSW generated in Allahabad was quantified at 500 tons/day.
- The average MSW generation rate was estimated at 0.39 kg/capita/day.
- Generated GIS maps provide insights into MSW generation rates per ward, collection points, transport routes, and disposal site attributes.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential data for optimizing municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in Allahabad.
- GIS mapping offers a powerful tool for visualizing and addressing spatial aspects of MSW challenges.
- Informed planning based on quantitative and qualitative MSW data is vital for sustainable urban environments.
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