ULB Kashmir to launch bio-mining of legacy waste at 18 old dumping sites

Srinagar, Aug 03: The Urban Local Bodies (ULB) of Kashmir is set to initiate the bio-mining of legacy waste at the old dumping sites of 18 municipalities across the valley. This process aims to clean the existing solid waste and land of these dumping sites within one year.
In 2023-2024, the ULBs of Kashmir have already cleared five old dumping sites in Pahalgam, Tral, Anantnag, Bijbehara and Tangmarg, amounting to 79,819 metric tonnes of legacy waste. The retrieved land from these sites has been repurposed for other uses within the municipalities.
An official from ULB Kashmir informed Rising Kashmir that 18 additional old dumping sites will be cleared through the bio-mining process this year. Machines will be installed at these sites in phases, ensuring complete cleanup within a year. The tendering process for the disposal of the legacy waste, estimated at approximately 298,825 metric tonnes, will begin in August.
Under the bio-mining process, two types of legacy waste are produced: bio-soil and recycled derived fuel (RDF). For instance, in the Municipal Committee of Tangmarg-Gulmarg, 1,030 metric tonnes of legacy waste have been cleared.
“This waste was a nuisance for the town, being located near many government offices. The waste was scientifically bio-remediated, and the RDF was transported to the Waste to Energy Plant in Delhi, managed by M/s Ramky Infrastructure,” the official said.
He said the processing of legacy waste at Tangmarg-Gulmarg retrieved two kanals of land, which are now being used to construct an office complex for sanitary staff, a changing room, and toilet facilities for Safaimitras. A green space is also being developed on part of the retrieved land.
In the Municipal Committee Tral, 17,714 metric tonnes of legacy waste have been cleared from the old dumping site. MC Tral was the first ULB to start bio-remediation work, clearing the site within 75 days. The retrieved 13 kanals of land are now being used to construct a scientific solid waste management facility.
“This initiative by ULB Kashmir aims to significantly improve the environmental and sanitary conditions in the region by repurposing the retrieved land for developmental purposes and promoting sustainable waste management practices,” the official said.