The long-overdue push toward sustainable waste management in Jammu has gained meaningful momentum with the establishment of the Integrated Solid Waste Management plant at Kot Bhalwal. With nearly 45 percent of the work already completed and operations slated to begin by September 2025, the city appears to be on track to finally address the decades-old problem of unscientific garbage disposal that has plagued its water bodies, landfills, and general environment. The joint initiative by the JMC and the NAFED reflects a pragmatic and forward-thinking approach. The 20:80 financial collaboration not only eases the fiscal burden on the JMC but also brings NAFED’s technical expertise into play-especially relevant given its proven experience in managing bio-waste.
The 350 MT per day capacity of the ISWM plant is a substantial figure, and it will be able to handle the daily waste generated across all 75 wards of Jammu city. The integrated nature of the facility-combining material recovery, biogas production, and bio-landfilling-ensures that waste will be handled holistically and in accordance with the norms of the Pollution Control Board. Such a structured model moves toward a sustainable economy. Equally commendable is the plan for bioremediation at the Kot Bhalwal site, which aims to detoxify and restore the land that has served as an informal dumping ground for years. The decision to convert this reclaimed land into a park further underlines the environmental intent of the project and offers a vision of urban regeneration.
However, enthusiasm must be tempered with vigilance. While timelines project operational readiness by September 2025, the initial two-year deadline has already been stretched, suggesting the need for close monitoring and periodic audits to avoid further delays. Moreover, effective waste management cannot be limited to backend infrastructure alone. The success of the ISWM project will also hinge on segregation at source, robust awareness campaigns, and efficient last-mile collection. With the right blend of technology, governance, and public engagement, this project has the potential to transform Jammu into a cleaner, greener and more resilient city.
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