India’s revamped Solid Waste Management Rules, effective from April 1, introduce a critical new category: ‘special care waste.’ Experts assert that Kerala is well-prepared to implement these changes. In preparation, training programs for stakeholders will commence following the upcoming Assembly elections, and directives to comply with the revised regulations have already been shared with local authorities.
For many households, the transition may not be drastic, as Kerala has been proactive in waste segregation since 2016. Current systems in place mean that residents are familiar with sorting their waste, which has been a focus of community awareness initiatives carried out via social media. R.S. Ameersha, the State programme officer at Suchitwa Mission, noted that the new guidelines will enhance existing practices, fostering a more structured approach to waste management. He emphasized that local bodies would receive comprehensive orientation regarding the new rules.
Under the revised framework, waste should be sorted into four distinct categories: wet, dry, sanitary, and special care waste. Ameersha highlighted that much of what is outlined in the new legislation has already been successfully incorporated into Kerala’s waste management practices. He mentioned that the state has consistently adhered to a waste collection calendar since 2016, which may receive updates once the new government is in place. The revised rules are expected to provide added impetus for the effective implementation of various waste segregation systems across the state.
For hazardous waste, the existing teams will see improvements in their operations, becoming more professional through specialized training and enhanced safety measures, including personal protective equipment and dedicated storage facilities. Renjini S., the District Coordinator of the Haritha Keralam Mission (HKM) in Ernakulam, shared that while multi-class waste segregation is already in place within the district, challenges persist, particularly around the storage of collected waste. She pointed out that delays in the collection of non-biodegradable waste can occur due to limited space, highlighting the need for targeted solutions. According to Renjini, waste management in rural areas tends to be simpler due to lower waste generation, while urban regions confront more complex challenges.
Consultant Jagajeevan N. from Suchitwa Mission applauded Kerala’s advancements in waste management, framing the revised rules as a validation of the state’s efforts. “We have not only implemented segregation and efficient management practices but have also adopted digital monitoring systems,” he stated. Currently, non-bio waste from approximately 9.5 million households is being digitally tracked.
Moving forward, Jagajeevan emphasized the importance of achieving 100% compliance and participation in these initiatives. The new regulations will impose stricter waste management obligations on bulk waste producers, a necessary step toward optimizing Kerala’s waste management strategy. As the state gears up for these changes, the focus will remain on enhancing community engagement and ensuring effective waste segregation practices, setting a benchmark for sustainable waste management in India.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kerala-prepared-for-new-solid-waste-management-rules-say-experts/article70816067.ece
Category : Kerala
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Publish Date: 2026-04-02 23:17:00
