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C and D Waste Crisis in Nagpur: Check how the City Buried in Its Own Debris?

When it comes to managing construction and demolition (C&D) waste, Nagpur is stuck in the past, while Mumbai is forging ahead into the future. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is implementing tech-driven systems and imposing substantial fines, whereas the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) continues to rely on outdated methods and minimal penalties.The BMC imposes fines for illegal dumping of up to ₹25,000 and is developing a real-time, QR-based app to track waste from its source to disposal.
In contrast, the NMC charges a mere ₹5,500 per vehicle, with a token annual increase of ₹500—hardly enough to cover the cost of a cement bag, let alone discourage builders from improper disposal.The Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2025, mandate segregation, recycling, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). However, Nagpur lacks an official plan, updates, or any actionable steps to comply with these regulations.
While there is a recycling plant in Bhandewadi with a capacity of 150 metric tonnes per day, it remains underutilized due to the absence of a structured collection system. There is no digital tracking, public reporting, or accountability in place.A 2023 CAG audit criticized urban local bodies like the NMC for their complete failure to monitor or implement even the 2016 regulations. As for the 2025 mandates?
They are nowhere to be found.Mumbai generates over 8,500 metric tonnes of C&D waste daily and has systems in place to manage it effectively. In contrast, Nagpur produces between 100 and 200 metric tonnes and still struggles to handle it. The issue is not one of scale; it lies in the mindset, planning, and governance.Nagpur’s approach to C&D waste management reflects not just a failure to manage waste, but also a significant missed opportunity for progress.
Ziya Khan

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