The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a comprehensive plan to mitigate the persistent odour nuisance affecting residents near the Kanjurmarg waste processing facility. In addition to developing a green belt between the residential Kannamwar Nagar and the facility, the BMC will relocate the material recovery facility (MRF) where waste segregation occurs. This relocation will facilitate the creation of a 500-meter buffer zone, aligning with directives from the monitoring committee overseeing the site.
Commissioner's Directives
Municipal commissioner Ashwini Bhide, during her visit to the Kanjurmarg dumping ground on Wednesday, instructed civic officials to enhance the application of odour-control chemicals on fresh waste. These measures aim to reduce the intensity of foul smells affecting nearby communities. The monitoring committee had earlier mandated that the BMC prepare a comprehensive green belt development plan within 15 days.
Green Belt and Tree Plantation
Kiran Dighavkar, deputy municipal commissioner (solid waste management), stated that approximately 15,000 trees will be planted across a 1 lakh square metre area within the buffer zone. The selected plant species are chosen for their properties that aid in odour control, dust suppression, and pollution absorption. This green belt will serve as a natural barrier between the processing facility and residential areas.
Real-Time Monitoring and Control Room
The civic administration has deployed dedicated teams comprising personnel from the contractor, BMC, and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) for real-time air quality monitoring. Commissioner Bhide also directed the establishment of a separate control room to monitor odour levels from 1 am to 6 am. This control room will ensure immediate remedial actions upon receiving complaints. Night-time teams will identify waste loads responsible for increased odour.
Odour Control Measures
To prevent odour from reaching surrounding residents, a chemical solution containing enzymes is sprayed on solid waste. Additionally, a misting system has been installed to disperse fragrant substances around waste-receiving areas. A misting cannon system for spraying fragrant substances is currently operational at 11 locations across the project site.
Air Quality Monitoring and Public Information
The commissioner called for the urgent establishment of a continuous air-monitoring station with a public display facility. Officials were directed to ensure uninterrupted use of state-of-the-art equipment for effective air quality monitoring. Bhide emphasized that updated air quality information should be regularly made available to citizens on the BMC website.
Green Fencing for All Facilities
Furthermore, the commissioner directed the administration to formulate a green fencing plan for all waste processing facilities in the city. This green fencing will function as a buffer zone between residential colonies and processing facilities, ensuring long-term mitigation of odour and other environmental impacts.
