The Achan Landfill in Srinagar: A Transformative Opportunity

The Achan landfill in Srinagar, Kashmir, has evolved from a simple site in the mid-1980s to a sprawling 123-acre area holding over 1.1 million metric tonnes of waste. Despite processing 550 tonnes of waste daily, the influx of new material continues to pose a challenge. However, with the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 on April 1, a new era of waste management is set to unfold in Srinagar.

The new rules, a significant upgrade from the 2016 version, provide clear directives for waste management in every city in India. Framed under the Environment Protection Act of 1986, these rules aim to address the gaps left by previous guidelines and involve all stakeholders in finding sustainable solutions.

One of the key aspects of the new rules is the segregation of waste at the source. Residents are required to sort waste into four distinct streams: wet kitchen waste for composting, dry items like plastics and paper for recycling, sanitary waste for safe disposal, and special household items for separate treatment. This segregation system not only promotes recycling but also enforces the polluter-pays principle, where those responsible for generating waste cover the costs of managing it.

Furthermore, the rules emphasize the need for proper documentation and monitoring of waste management processes. Legacy sites like Achan are being mapped, and detailed plans for biomining, bioremediation, and scientific restoration are being developed. A transparent online portal tracks each step of the waste management process, enhancing accountability and visibility.

The circular model promoted by the rules incentivizes recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy projects, steering cities away from heavy reliance on landfills. By making waste handling a core responsibility of good governance, the rules aim to spread accountability, ensure follow-through, and reward active participation.

In Srinagar, the implementation of the new rules is already underway. Residents are gradually adapting to the segregation system, and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation is strengthening its teams through targeted training. Small processing centers are being established near neighborhoods to streamline waste management operations and reduce transportation distances.

The National Green Tribunal’s directives regarding the Achan landfill have added urgency to the waste management efforts in Srinagar. With a two-year deadline to address the 1.1 million metric tonnes of waste at the site, the municipality is aligning its actions with the new national framework to achieve sustainable results.

As the community near Achan experiences the positive impact of improved waste management practices, including cleaner surroundings, healthier living conditions, and environmental preservation, the momentum for change continues to grow. By leveraging the guidelines laid out in the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026, Srinagar has a unique opportunity to demonstrate effective governance and genuine concern for the well-being of its residents and the environment.

The author, Uzma Qadir Mir, studying for a Master’s in Public Administration at a Delhi-based university, can be contacted at [email protected]

In conclusion, the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 present a comprehensive and actionable framework for transforming waste management practices in Srinagar and beyond. With concerted efforts from local leaders, residents, and civil society, the vision of a cleaner and more sustainable future for Achan and Kashmir can be realized.

Enhance Your Content with Unique Rewrites

Looking to boost your website’s SEO ranking and engage your readers with fresh, unique content? Our team of skilled writers can help you achieve just that by creatively rephrasing every sentence and phrase to ensure absolute content uniqueness while maintaining all original facts and core messages. With our services, you can incorporate relevant SEO keywords naturally and improve the readability and error-free content of your WordPress website. Say goodbye to duplicate content and hello to a more engaging and informative online presence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your website with our unique rewrites!