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Coimbatore Embraces 4-Way Waste Segregation for Healthier Future
15 Nov
Summary
- Coimbatore now segregates waste into four streams: wet, dry, sanitary, and special-care.
- New rules mandate separate collection, improving worker safety from infections and injuries.
- Awareness campaigns are underway to educate residents on the new waste management system.
As of November 15, 2026, the Coimbatore Corporation has initiated a comprehensive four-way household waste segregation system. This transition aligns with the updated Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, which mandate the separation of waste into four streams: wet (green), dry (blue), sanitary (red), and special-care (black). Special-care waste encompasses items like discarded medicines, batteries, and used needles.
The city, which generates approximately 1,215 tonnes of waste daily, has equipped its garbage collection vehicles with separate compartments for sanitary and special-care waste. Previously, sanitary waste was mixed with dry waste, posing significant health risks and injury threats to conservancy workers. This new system ensures that such hazardous materials are handled with greater care.
Coimbatore Corporation has partnered with two private agencies to manage the collected sanitary and special-care waste, sending it for processing at facilities in Chettipalayam and Madukkarai. Wet waste is directed to the Vellalore dumpyard, while dry waste is sent to material recovery facilities and cement factories. To support this transition, the Corporation is conducting weekly awareness campaigns to educate residents on the new segregation protocols.
