Navi Mumbai :- The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is making significant strides in the realm of environmental conservation by implementing cutting-edge waste management practices and modern industrial projects based on scientific principles. This environmentally friendly project has garnered national recognition and is poised to set a new standard for sustainable urban development.
The journey began in 2004 when NMMC took over a 36-acre landfill site in Koparkhairane, Sector 14, which was plagued by indiscriminate waste disposal. The local residents and representatives had expressed their concerns about the environmental impact of this practice, leading NMMC to explore alternative solutions. Following discussions with the District Collector’s office, NMMC decided to implement a state-of-the-art waste management project based on the Waste Management Rules of 2004.
Under the JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission), a project was initiated to process 350 metric tons of waste daily and create a facility for the production of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). After the implementation of the Waste Management Rules of 2016, the project’s capacity was increased to accommodate changes in regulations.
While developing this modern waste management project in Turbhe, NMMC has made considerable efforts to restore and rejuvenate the former landfill area, turning it into a lush green oasis. Today, this site attracts more than 7,000 citizens for morning and evening jogging sessions. Moreover, around 65,000 native trees have been planted near this natural reserve, creating urban forests in the city.
This project, like many others undertaken by NMMC, places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Mr. Rajesh Narvekar, the Municipal Commissioner, has played a pivotal role in updating and modernizing NMMC’s waste management initiatives to align with the demands of the present era.
Currently, several large cities are taking steps to establish gas and electricity projects that are environmentally responsible. The central government has also allocated funds from CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) budgets of oil and gas companies such as BPCL, Indian Oil, ONGC, and GAIL for gas and electricity projects. These initiatives reflect a growing trend towards environmentally sustainable development and have been initiated in several cities across the country.
NMMC’s forward-thinking approach, combined with the enthusiastic participation of various stakeholders, is set to make gas and electricity projects a reality in Navi Mumbai. As this project progresses, Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation will emerge as a leading authority in waste management and environmental conservation, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and greener future for the city.
