Under the new framework, segregation of waste into four distinct categories has been made mandatory for all residents and establishments within the MCC limits. The civic body has emphasised that this move is critical to improving waste processing efficiency, reducing landfill burden, and promoting sustainable urban living.

As per the revised rules, waste generators must segregate their waste into the following four categories before handing it over to authorised collection vehicles:

Officials have stated that proper segregation at source is essential to ensure effective recycling, safe disposal, and minimisation of environmental hazards.

To streamline waste management operations, the MCC has introduced a revised collection schedule. Wet waste and sanitary waste will be collected daily to prevent decomposition-related issues and health risks. Meanwhile, dry waste and domestic hazardous waste will be collected once a week, specifically on Fridays.

According to MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik, the structured schedule is designed to improve efficiency in waste handling and ensure that different categories of waste are treated using appropriate methods. The initiative is also expected to reduce operational challenges faced by sanitation workers and improve overall cleanliness in the city.

The updated rules also bring significant changes for bulk waste generators. Establishments producing more than 100 kilograms of waste per day or having a built-up area exceeding 20,000 square metres will now fall under this category. This includes offices, shopping malls, hospitals, and large residential complexes. Additionally, units consuming more than 40,000 litres of water daily are also classified as bulk waste generators.

Such entities will be subject to stricter compliance norms, including the mandatory processing of wet waste within their premises. The MCC has clarified that decentralised waste processing is crucial to reducing pressure on municipal waste management infrastructure.

The MCC has warned that violations related to improper segregation and disposal will attract penalties under the Solid Waste Management Bye-laws, 2019. Civic authorities have stressed that enforcement will be stringent, with inspections and monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure adherence.

Residents and institutions have been urged to actively cooperate with the civic body by following the prescribed guidelines. Officials believe that public participation is key to the success of the new waste management system.

In a parallel effort to promote sustainability, the MCC has introduced a 'Green Marriage' initiative aimed at encouraging eco-friendly wedding practices. Recently, the corporation honoured a couple, Veerendar and Suraksha, for conducting a zero-waste wedding ceremony at Rajatadri auditorium in Vamanjoor on March 30.

The wedding followed a plastic-free and environmentally conscious approach. Guests were served drinking water and beverages in steel tumblers instead of plastic bottles. Tissue papers were avoided, and ice cream was served in cups made from arecanut sheets. The stage decorations featured flowers and reusable eco-friendly materials.

The MCC has stated that such initiatives are intended to create awareness about sustainable practices and inspire citizens to adopt environmentally responsible behaviour during large gatherings and celebrations.

The implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 marks a significant step towards improving urban sanitation and environmental sustainability in Mangaluru. With mandatory four-way segregation, revised collection schedules, and stricter norms for bulk waste generators, the MCC aims to build a more efficient and eco-friendly waste management system.

However, the success of these measures will largely depend on public cooperation and consistent enforcement. By embracing these changes and participating actively, residents can contribute to making Mangaluru a cleaner and more sustainable city.

Mangaluru enforces four-way waste segregation under new rules

#Mangaluru #WasteManagement #SwachhBharat #EcoFriendly #NewsKarnataka