A Critical Study of the Implementation of Law Regulating Solid Waste Management in Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) has become a challenge before society as it is a neglected subject in the field of the environment which is hazardous for the health of human beings as well as other creatures too. In general terms, MSW refers to solid wastes from houses, streets and public places, shops, offices, and hospitals. To dispose of these wastes in a sound way, the management of municipal wastes is required which involves a planned system of effectively controlling the production, storage, collection, transportation, processing, and disposal or utilization of solid wastes. The Constitution of India provides a lot of rights to people like the right to a pollution-free environment which is very crucial. Through judicial articulation, the Indian Judiciary has also played a vital role to protect the environment. Under the provisions of the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the Municipal Solid Waste (Management & Handling) Rule, 2000 has been made which lays down the norms to be followed in case of MSW. Life cycle of the MSW may be as- generation-segregation- storage and collection- transportation- treatment- disposal. But, it has been found that in most cities, open dumping of MSW is the common practice that adversely affects the environment and public health. The present paper discusses the legal profile and policies available on solid waste management in India, responsibilities of the concerned departments and future need to enhance legal regime for better management of Indian environment