Jaipur’s 4-bin segregation of waste plan faces reality check

Jaipur: Ahead of new solid waste management rules coming into force in April, the Jaipur Municipal Corporation is preparing to introduce a four-way segregation of waste at source. But the city's waste system remains far from ready, with even basic wet and dry waste segregation yet to be fully streamlined.Although JMC has launched awareness drives asking households and commercial establishments to keep separate bins, residents in several areas say segregated waste is often mixed again during collection. Helpers accompanying garbage hoppers are reportedly dumping all categories together, defeating the purpose of segregation. The problem is especially visible at the mechanised transfer stations at Jhalana and along Delhi Road, which were envisioned as modern waste-handling facilities but have become a source of distress for nearby residents and shopkeepers. Garbage piles and delays in processing have led to a persistent foul smell, while the build-up of wet waste has increased mosquito breeding and health concerns.Rajesh Meena, a local resident, said, "The stench is unbearable, especially in the mornings and evenings. We have raised complaints several times, but nothing has changed."Mukesh Saini, who runs a shop nearby, added, "Customers do not want to stay because of the smell. Business has been affected ever since the transfer station came up."Shakti Devi, another resident, said, "We are worried about the children. The mosquito problem is getting worse, and there is always a fear of illness." Jaipur generates a large volume of waste every day, but scientific segregation and disposal remain limited. In several wards, door-to-door collection is irregular, and infrastructure to handle multiple waste streams is still evolving. JMC deputy commissioner-I Health, Om Thanvi said, "Preparations are underway to implement the new rules. Efforts are also being made to further improve the mechanised transfer stations at Jhalana and Delhi Road."The gap between policy and practice remains stark, with weak collection systems and overburdened transfer stations threatening to derail the rollout of four-bin system.