Starting as a Waste Smart Fellow for Lalitpur Metropolitan City (LMC) was an emotional rollercoaster. My initial assignment at the Balkumari Waste Collection Center, due to space limitations at LMC, was overwhelming. The center processes around 60 tons of waste daily, and the intense smell made it difficult to work. After just two days, I had to take a leave. However, with the assistance of Pradeep Amatya, a Senior Environmental Engineer, I was relocated to the Nagar Gaurab office of LMC. Despite the initial hurdles, my brief stint at Balkumari became a valuable learning experience.
One significant issue that stood out was the lack of a proper Waste Segregation Plan. The cramped space where vehicle parking and waste collection coexisted was far from ideal. Yet, this challenge presents a unique opportunity for improvement. According to Surendra Amatya, the Manager of the Balkumari Collection Center, Lalitpur has the potential to transform its waste management system with more than 20 Ropani of land, an integrated segregation plan, and a separate parking area for waste vehicles.
I reviewed LMC's policies and created a comprehensive Policy Gap Assessment Report using data from the LMC Environment Department. Interviews with waste workers at Balkumari revealed significant progress in their involvement in training, awareness programs, and personal safety measures. While conditions are not yet perfect, the improvements are notable.
Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan highlighted LMC's plan to manage its waste internally by creating its landfill site at Pharsi Dol, Bungmati. Unfortunately, this site was deemed inoperable due to the 13 km and 13-degree rule designed to ensure aircraft safety by minimizing the risk of bird strikes. Landfills attract birds, posing a hazard to flight safety. LMC has also conducted studies on appropriate technologies and plans to transition from a linear to a circular economy, aiming to enhance the city's waste management and environmental health.
My first day was challenging, but it provided invaluable insights into the issues and potential solutions for waste management in Lalitpur. This journey underscores the importance of perseverance and innovation in addressing urban waste challenges, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for Lalitpur.
