Punjab's Waste Crisis: Legacy Trash Threatens 2027

Punjab's urban local bodies are burdened by an estimated 41.11 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste, with full remediation not expected until April 2027. This accumulated waste, comprising various materials, poses serious environmental and public health risks. Initially, 43.47 lakh MT of legacy waste had been processed, but reassessments following National Green Tribunal directions increased the remaining unprocessed amount. Daily solid waste generation across the state is 4,008 tonnes, with 89.95% currently processed, indicating ongoing efforts to manage current waste streams.

The state also faces considerable challenges in sewage management. Urban Punjab generates approximately 2,219.91 million litres per day of sewage, with about 2,009.50 MLD being treated. While most sewage treatment plants are compliant, a daily treatment gap of 210.41 MLD persists. To address this, 36 new STPs are under construction, targeted for completion by December 31, 2026, with an additional 30 planned by December 31, 2027, though land availability is an issue in some areas.