Coimbatore's C&D Waste Crisis: Roadsides Choked

Construction and demolition waste continues to be a significant problem in Coimbatore, leading to safety and environmental concerns. Accumulations of debris along roadsides, such as the Ukkadam-Selvapuram bypass, reduce visibility for motorists and create hazardous conditions, especially during rain. Environmental groups are highlighting the severe impact of this dumping on local water bodies, including the Noyyal river and Sanganoor Canal, which are experiencing reduced carrying capacity and ecological damage.

Environmentalists are urging the Corporation to view construction debris as a valuable recyclable resource that can be reused in road construction and other building applications. They propose establishing designated collection centers and regulating private operators to ensure waste reaches authorized processing facilities. While the Corporation had previously considered setting up C&D waste collection centers in each zone, the proposal did not receive council approval due to concerns over potential dust pollution.

Officials have stated that a dedicated team is actively removing roadside mud and accumulated soil across the city. Furthermore, the Corporation is in the process of finalizing a comprehensive plan to implement a city-wide system for the scientific management of construction and demolition waste. This initiative aims to curb illegal dumping and potentially generate revenue through recycled materials.