Deonar Waste Mountain: Land Reclaimed

The Deonar legacy-waste biomining project in Mumbai has received a crucial Consent to Operate (Part) from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board on August 21, 2026. This approval enables the scientific treatment of approximately 18.5 million tonnes of legacy waste.

The primary objective is to reclaim nearly 110 hectares of land at the Deonar dumping ground. The biomining process will involve separating the accumulated waste into useful fractions. These include Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF), compost, and recyclable materials. Recovered plastics, glass, metals, and textiles will be directed towards authorized recycling facilities.

Non-recyclable plastics may be utilized in road construction or sent to RDF and cement plants. Additionally, earthy fines and soil-like materials can be repurposed for landscaping and green areas. Sand, gravel, and concrete fractions are intended for reuse in road works and construction.

Environmental safeguards have been mandated by the MPCB, covering dust, odour, fire, and methane risks. Periodic air quality monitoring will be conducted. Transport vehicles must be covered, and special precautions are required during the monsoon to prevent waste runoff into drains.

The Deonar dumping ground, operational since 1927, is one of India's oldest and largest. Despite partial capping, it poses significant environmental and public health risks, including fires and methane emissions. The BMC had invited bids for remediation on May 14, 2025, with the deadline extended multiple times. Navayuga Engineering Ltd emerged as the lowest bidder and was approved for the contract.