Current World Environment

This study presents an integrated comparative analysis of solid waste management (SWM) systems in the medium-sized Indian cities of Mysuru and Tiruchirappalli by synthesizing quantitative metrics from the Swachh Bharat Survekshan 2023 scoreboard with qualitative assessments through Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis and comprehensive stakeholder interviews. This study captures both systemic efficiency and governance dynamics. The findings reveal that Mysuru predominantly employs a "Cradle to Grave" model for waste management, while demonstrating strong commitments to specific circular economy initiatives such as decentralized infrastructure, composting, and public-private partnerships, resulting in 70% household-level segregation. Conversely, Trichy has achieved 100% collection coverage and an impressive 89% segregation rate through decentralized collection networks, yet exhibits inconsistencies in processing. The stakeholder analysis, informed by interviews, indicates that municipal corporations hold the most power, although significant groups such as sanitation workers and residents are often excluded from decision-making processes. The SWOT analysis contrasts Mysuru’s strengths in specific circular economy initiatives and infrastructure with Trichy’s strengths in local projects and small-scale composting. It also highlights shared challenges such as processing delays and legacy waste management. This study is of considerable importance as it provides an analysis of urban waste management practices while addressing the social and political dimensions of the issue. By exploring collaboration between experts and community involvement, this study offers insights for developing waste management strategies that are inclusive, sustainable, and adaptable. These strategies are particularly beneficial for emerging medium-sized cities in India.

[ HTML Full Text ]