Dehradun Municipal Corporation Launches Advanced Waste Transfer Station
In a significant move to modernise solid waste management, the Dehradun Municipal Corporation (DMC) conducted a trial run at the Mechanised Transfer Station (MTS) in Dhoran on Thursday. Officials confirmed that the facility will become fully operational starting Sunday, marking a pivotal step in the city's environmental initiatives.
Transition to Technology-Driven Waste Management
Municipal Commissioner Namami Bansal highlighted the importance of this development, stating, "The MTS represents a fundamental shift from traditional dumping methods to a modern, technology-driven, and environmentally sustainable waste management system." This initiative is part of DMC's broader strategy to enhance urban cleanliness and reduce ecological impact.
Infrastructure and Operational Details
The civic body had planned two such stations—one at Kargi and another at Dhoran—both previously used for open dumping. While the Kargi MTS became operational last year, construction at Dhoran began in January 2025 after experiencing years of delays. Under the new system, waste will be transported directly to the Sheeshambada Processing Plant using a "no ground dumping – direct mechanical transfer" model.
Door-to-door collection vehicles will bring waste from approximately 25 wards to the Dhoran MTS. Here, the waste will be discharged into a hopper-based mechanical system to prevent open dumping. Two high-pressure static compactors will then compress the waste using hydraulic pressure before it is transferred through a sealed, capsule-based mechanism. This design effectively controls leachate, odour, and spillage, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental norms.
Capacity and Environmental Benefits
The Dhoran MTS has a handling capacity of 140 metric tonnes per day and is expected to serve around 25 wards. DMC officials emphasised that the station will significantly improve odour and pollution control, reduce leachate generation, and enhance processing efficiency. Additionally, it promotes better source segregation, contributing to more sustainable waste practices.
Enforcement Drive for Cleanliness
In a related effort to bolster urban hygiene, the civic body conducted an enforcement drive from Old Rajpur to Canal Road via Rajpur Road. This initiative targeted cleanliness violations, improper construction and demolition (C&D) waste disposal, and encroachments. A total of 87 challans were issued for littering, plastic use, and improper C&D waste disposal, resulting in fines amounting to Rs 71,387. Another 40 challans were issued for encroachment-related violations, underscoring DMC's commitment to maintaining public order and environmental standards.
This comprehensive approach—combining advanced infrastructure with strict enforcement—aims to transform Dehradun's waste management landscape, setting a benchmark for other cities in sustainable urban development.
