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Delhi Garbage Fees: Residents Pay Twice?
23 Sep
Summary
- Residents pay informal collectors, question separate MCD fees.
- MCD plans two-tier user fees based on colony circle rates.
- Experts urge layered approach, contract redesign for waste management.
Residents across Delhi are raising concerns over insufficient door-to-door waste collection and the exclusion of informal waste collectors from the system. This comes as the New Delhi Municipal Council finalizes its byelaws for 2026, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) works on its rules.
The MCD is considering a two-tier user fee structure, with rates varying based on colony circle rates. However, residents' associations indicate a willingness to pay a nominal fee only if the civic body demonstrates reliable service delivery. Many households already contribute to a parallel waste collection network, paying local informal collectors.
Waste management experts advocate for a more integrated strategy. They suggest redesigning concessionaire contracts to cover low-resource areas and include horticulture and construction waste. Experts also note that free doorstep collection might not be suitable for larger generators like markets and hotels, aligning with solid waste management rules.
Previous attempts by the MCD to levy garbage fees have faced significant opposition, leading to rollbacks. Residents point out they already pay house tax for basic services and question the impact on informal workers if separate fees are mandated.
