Gurugram's Green Bill: Annual 5% Hike Proposed for Waste Collection

Gurugram residents and businesses may soon see a slight but steady increase in their environmental contributions, as the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has proposed a 5% annual hike in solid waste collection charges. This significant move, aimed at bolstering the city's waste management infrastructure and covering escalating operational costs, is slated to take effect from April 1, 2024, pending final approval from the Department of Urban Local Bodies (ULB).

The proposal outlines a comprehensive revision of charges across various categories, impacting not just households but also a wide array of commercial and institutional establishments.

Existing charges for many services haven't been updated since 2018, leading to a substantial gap between collection revenues and the actual expenses incurred in maintaining a clean and green city.

Driving this adjustment are several critical factors. The implementation of the stringent Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, demands more sophisticated and cost-intensive processes, including enhanced segregation, processing, and disposal methods.

Furthermore, the operational costs for door-to-door collection, transportation, and processing of segregated waste have surged due to fuel price increases, labor wages, and maintenance of advanced machinery.

Under the new structure, residential properties will see charges based on property size, with flats and plots facing revised rates.

Commercial entities, ranging from small shops to large industrial units, and institutional establishments like hospitals and schools, will also experience a 5% annual increment. Critically, the proposal also introduces new charges for bulk waste generators and construction and demolition (C&D) waste, ensuring that all sources of waste contribute equitably to the city's cleanliness efforts.

Beyond the financial aspect, the revised framework also emphasizes strict adherence to waste segregation at source.

The proposal includes provisions for penalties against non-compliance, reinforcing the importance of citizens actively participating in effective waste management. This integrated approach aims not only to generate necessary funds but also to foster a more responsible waste disposal culture throughout Gurugram, paving the way for a more sustainable and hygienic urban environment.