Generation and Characterization of Solid waste in Nagaland: A Case Study of Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung Towns

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and economic development have not only changed the physical size of the cities but are also exerting significant additional pressure on the infrastructural services across Indian cities. Nagaland is experiencing high rate of urbanization. As per the 2011 census Nagaland recorded the highest growth rate of urbanization in the country during the last decade, which was 69 per cent as against the national growth rate of 21 per cent. Increasing solid waste is a major contemporary issue that Nagaland is facing. Monitoring of generation and characterization of solid waste is a key factor for effective solid waste management. The present study aims to examine the current rate of generation and characterization of solid waste in the three study areas. The study finds out that Mooching, Kohima, and Dimapur towns generated 40 tpd, 90 tpd, and 110 tpd of MSW with per capita generation of 1000 g, 900 g and 1100 g. The average g/capita/day for the three urban areas is 1000g which is 120 per cent higher than the national average of 450 g/capita/day. On an average the MSW composition in Nagaland is 43 per cent compostable, 30 per cent recyclable, 25 per cent inert and 2 per cent others. The study suggests to introduce composting method in the three urban towns since the percentage of compostable or biodegradable matter in MSW is higher as compared to other type of solid waste.