SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICE IN MALERKOTLA CITY: AN APPRAISAL

Municipal solid waste includes refuse from households, non-hazardous solid waste from industrial, commercial and institutional establishments, market waste and street sweepings. Waste generation increases with population expansion and economic development. Rapid industrialization and population explosion in India has led to the migration of people from villages to cities, which generate thousands of tons of solid waste daily. Improperly managed solid waste poses a risk to human health and the environment. The solid waste amount is expected to increase significantly in the near future as the country strives to attain an industrialized nation status by the year 2020 (Sharma and Shah, 2005; CPCB, 2004; Shekdar et al 1992). Poor collection and inadequate transportation are responsible for the accumulation of solid waste at every nook and corner. The management of solid waste is going through a critical phase, due to the unavailability of suitable facilities to treat and dispose of the larger amount of solid waste generated daily in cities. Uncontrolled dumping and improper waste handling causes a variety of problems, including contaminating water, attracting insects and rodents, and increasing flooding due to blocked drainage canals or gullies. Improper waste management also increases greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Most of our cities and municipalities in third world countries like India are struggling with improper disposal of waste. Hence, it is significant to study waste disposal practice in Malerkotla city of Sangrur district in Punjab and suggest feasible solid waste management strategies. The aims of the present study are to the highlight the present locations of solid waste disposal site in Malerkotla city which are creating health and environmental hazards. Based on fieldwork proper waste management practices are also suggested for Malerkotla city.