Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is grappling with a mounting waste management issue, with approximately 500 tonnes of solid waste generated daily. Of this, 30 tonnes is plastic waste, which is causing serious environmental concerns. A recent report from the India Clean Air Network (ICAN) sheds light on the challenges the city faces, such as the lack of proper engineered landfill sites and unscientific waste disposal practices.
The report reveals that nearly 62% of the city’s waste consists of biodegradable materials, while 27% is inert, 7.8% is plastic, and 1.25% is metal and glass. Despite efforts to manage the waste, the city’s landfill sites, such as Bandhwari and the Temporary Transit Station near Sainik School, are overwhelmed, leading to waste being left unprocessed. At the Bhuasuni open dump, outdated disposal methods are still being used, worsening the environmental damage.
The situation is not only an eyesore but also poses severe health risks, especially from microplastics. According to experts, children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of these tiny plastic particles, which have begun infiltrating the food chain and environment. Ajay Mittal, Co-Chairperson of ICAN, emphasized that plastic pollution and microplastics are silent intruders affecting both the environment and human health.
For the residents of Bhubaneswar, this growing problem means increased exposure to harmful waste, pollution of water sources, and the constant risk of diseases. The city’s inadequate infrastructure for waste collection and disposal only compounds the issue.
To tackle this crisis, city authorities must act quickly to invest in proper waste management systems, promote waste segregation, and educate citizens about reducing plastic consumption. Only with these measures in place can Bhubaneswar ensure a healthier and cleaner environment for its residents.
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