Kerala is making significant strides in addressing its construction and demolition waste challenge. A new, state-of-the-art processing plant, capable of handling 100 to 150 tonnes of debris daily, is slated for the Edayar industrial area in Ernakulam. This facility will span nearly two acres and is a key initiative to tackle the ever-growing issue of construction waste.
This ambitious project is structured as a public-private partnership (PPP) and is an integral component of the World Bank-backed Kerala Solid Waste Management Project. Its primary goal is to close critical gaps in how the region currently manages its construction and demolition waste, paving the way for more sustainable practices.
The Edayar plant isn’t just a local endeavor; its establishment is a highlight of Kerala’s State Action Plan on Air Quality, underscoring its broader environmental importance. With an expected completion date of 2028, the government has committed ₹7.9 crore towards its development. The Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) and the Kerala State Pollution Control Board will jointly oversee its implementation, ensuring a cohesive and effective approach.
Furthermore, the LSGD plans to introduce new guidelines promoting the reuse of processed construction and demolition waste in public works projects once these regional facilities are operational. Looking ahead, a progressive policy will dedicate approximately 5% of industrial park areas for the development of essential recycling and recovery infrastructure.
Emphasizing decentralized responsibility, a previous circular from the Director of Panchayat mandated that local grama panchayats must secure detailed disposal plans and commitments from those generating construction and demolition waste. These local bodies are also tasked with ensuring thorough cleanup of all construction and demolition sites within their jurisdiction.
To facilitate better waste segregation and collection, it has been stipulated that appropriate containers be placed at all construction and demolition sites. There’s a strong push to encourage waste segregation at the source. Moreover, businesses anticipating the generation of 20 tonnes of waste daily, or 300 tonnes monthly, will be required to obtain prior permission from their respective grama panchayats.
In a move to foster innovation, grama panchayats are encouraged to collaborate with experts to devise creative and effective waste disposal strategies for construction and demolition materials. This valuable information, including novel plans, should then be made publicly accessible on the grama panchayats’ official websites, promoting transparency and community engagement.