The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced the launch of Phase 2 of its bio-mining project at the Bhuasuni dumping yard in Bhubaneswar.
The initiative aims to process an additional 9 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste in a phased manner, significantly boosting the city’s waste remediation capacity.
Large-Scale Waste Processing Plan
The second phase will be executed in three stages, building upon the progress made over the past three years. So far, nearly 12 lakh metric tonnes of accumulated waste have been cleared from the site. With the new phase underway, the total volume of legacy waste processed is expected to reach approximately 21 lakh metric tonnes.
Scientific Approach to Waste Treatment
Bio-mining involves the scientific segregation and treatment of mixed waste, allowing for the recovery, recycling, and safe disposal of different components. The Bhuasuni site, which served as a major dumping ground from 2008 to 2022, is now undergoing systematic remediation to reduce environmental impact.
Compliance with Environmental Directives
The transition to bio-mining began in 2023 following directives from the National Green Tribunal, which mandated urban local bodies to stop open dumping and adopt scientific waste processing methods. Officials confirmed that no fresh waste is currently being dumped at alternative sites such as Daruthenga.
Background and Community Concerns
Although the bio-mining project received cabinet approval in November 2021, its implementation faced delays due to protests from local residents. Community members had demanded a complete halt to fresh waste dumping before initiating bio-mining. The civic body proceeded with the project after addressing these concerns and fulfilling its commitments.
Towards Sustainable Urban Management
The latest phase is expected to strengthen Bhubaneswar’s compliance with environmental norms while addressing long-standing concerns related to waste accumulation. The initiative marks a significant step toward sustainable urban waste management and improved public health outcomes.
