Rourkela revamps waste management system; city to send 120 tonnes daily to cement factory

Rourkela is set for a major transformation in its waste management system, with the city now directing nearly 120 tonnes of daily waste to a cement factory in Rajgangpur. The move marks a significant shift in disposal practices and is part of a broader strategy to improve sustainability and reduce landfill pressure.

Under the new system, the Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) has initiated source-level waste segregation to ensure more efficient processing. Plans are also underway to blend biodegradable waste with soil to promote natural decomposition, which can later support landscaping and soil enrichment efforts.

Currently, all waste generated in the city is being deposited at the Tarakera dumping yard. This comes after more than five decades of dumping waste at Chhend, a practice that has now been phased out.

Rourkela Municipal Commissioner recently inspected the Tarakera yard to review the upgraded waste-handling arrangements.

 ‘The long-standing waste dumping issue at Chhend is expected to be resolved within the next two months. Meanwhile, a new MCC–MRF facility has been inaugurated at Tarakera and is now being operationalised, said Diana Dastagiri, the Rourkela Municipal Commissioner.

Locals also praised the move, as one local Zentle Parida, said, ‘This is a welcome move. With the stadium, airport, and science park located here, the situation had become extremely difficult due to the persistent foul smell, especially during the summer months. We had submitted written complaints several times, and we are grateful that the government has finally taken corrective action.’