Why is Mumbai considered one of India's dirtiest cities despite its budget?

Mumbai ranks poorly due to challenges in waste collection, especially in slums, and overwhelmed processing facilities, despite a large budget.

How much waste does Mumbai generate daily, and what are the main challenges?

Mumbai generates 6,600 metric tonnes of waste daily, with organic waste being the largest component. Challenges include collection in slums and a surge in construction waste.

What are the BMC's plans for improving waste management in Mumbai?

The BMC plans a Rs 4,000-crore overhaul, including new trucks, outsourced services, and upgraded processing facilities, alongside enforcing stricter waste management bylaws.

Home / Environment / BMC's Waste Woes: Mumbai Spends Big, Stays Dirty

BMC's Waste Woes: Mumbai Spends Big, Stays Dirty

5 Jan

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Summary

Mumbai ranks among India's 10 dirtiest cities despite huge waste budget.
Daily waste generation stands at 6,600 metric tonnes, with 72% organic.
Construction waste has surged over 200% in four years, overwhelming facilities.

BMC's Waste Woes: Mumbai Spends Big, Stays Dirty

Mumbai continues to struggle with a mounting waste management crisis, even as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the nation's wealthiest civic body, prepares for polls. Despite a significant expenditure of Rs 5,548 crore in fiscal year 2025-2026, Mumbai was ranked among the top 10 dirtiest cities in India in the 2025 National Swachh Survekshan report. This starkly contrasts with Navi Mumbai's third-place ranking, highlighting a significant disparity in civic performance.

The city generates an average of 6,600 metric tonnes of municipal solid waste daily, with a substantial 72% being organic. Waste is collected by over 33,700 BMC staff and processed at transfer stations before reaching facilities like Deonar and Kanjurmarg. However, challenges persist, particularly in densely populated slum areas where consistent waste collection is difficult, leading to clogged drains and health concerns for residents. The waste management system also grapples with a surge in construction and demolition (C&D) waste, which has increased by over 200% in the last four years.