13 May,2026 05:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Civic chief Ashwini Bhide had visited the Kanjurmarg waste facility early on Wednesday. Pic/BMC
In response to concerns raised by the Bombay High Court and recommendations of the Monitoring Committee, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed a series of immediate environmental mitigation and odour management measures at the Kanjurmarg Waste Processing Site.
The action plan comes shortly after BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide conducted a surprise inspection of the facility early on Wednesday morning.
Environmental buffer and green transition: The BMC will immediately develop scientific green buffer zones between residential areas and waste processing facilities. A detailed zonation-based plantation and green fencing plan will be prepared using plant species effective for odour mitigation, dust suppression, and pollution absorption. Similar green buffer strategies will be extended to all major solid waste management (SWM) sites in Mumbai.
Scientific odour mitigation: Authorities will intensify the use of bio-enzymes, microbial solutions, and odour-neutralising agents on fresh waste and processing areas. Bio-filters and odour scrubbers will be installed or strengthened at material recovery facilities (MRF) and composting units.
Real-time monitoring and quick response: The civic body will strengthen real-time air quality index (AQI) and odour monitoring systems. Dedicated night monitoring teams (10 pm to 6 am) involving contractor staff, BMC officials, and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) will be deployed. A night control room will also be set up for immediate response to odour complaints.
Rationalisation of processing facilities Contractors have been directed to submit a time-bound action plan for relocation or rationalisation of MRF facilities falling within sensitive buffer zones. Vacated spaces will be converted into landscaped green zones.
Transparency and public confidence Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) with public display screens will be installed, and real-time environmental data will be integrated with the BMC dashboard and website.
The comprehensive measures aim to transform Kanjurmarg from a conventional waste handling site into a scientifically managed and environmentally sustainable waste processing ecosystem. These steps are expected to reduce odour issues and improve the quality of life for residents in the vicinity.
During her visit, Commissioner Bhide reviewed ongoing operations, including waste segregation, composting, waste-to-energy processes, and existing odour control measures such as bio-enzyme spraying and misting systems.
