KMC Links Building Completion Certificate to Waste Management
Kolkata Municipal Corporation Enforces Waste Management for Building Completion Certificate
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has introduced a new rule that requires building owners and developers to deposit all construction and demolition waste at a civic body-run processing plant before they can receive a completion certificate (CC). The completion certificate is a testament to the building’s compliance with KMC regulations.
The processing plant, located in New Town, has the capacity to process 500 tonnes of waste daily. However, it currently receives only about 90 tonnes each day, according to a KMC official. The waste is often used to fill water bodies or elevate the height of plots, leading to environmental concerns such as increased air pollution.
Recently, residents in Jadavpur reported seeing bricks and concrete chunks dumped along the banks of a local water body. The continuous dumping of solid waste has led to a noticeable reduction in the size of the pond over the years.
According to an order issued by the municipal commissioner last month, “No Completion Certificate will be issued unless the applicant furnishes the certificate issued by the plant operator.” The order also states that construction will not be permitted unless the owner or developer provides a certificate from the plant confirming that the waste generated up to the plinth level was deposited in the plant.
A fee will be levied on the owner for the processing of the waste when the KMC approves a building plan. Owners have the option to send the waste to the plant themselves or request the KMC to collect it. The KMC has approximately 50 vehicles dedicated to waste collection. Those generating construction and demolition waste outside the KMC area are also permitted to send their waste to the plant.
The plant is designed to convert the waste generated in the real estate sector into paver blocks. Plot owners found to be dumping waste in open spaces or water bodies will be held accountable and could face hefty fines. They are advised to verify with their developers whether the waste is being sent to the plant.
As per the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016, individuals found dumping waste in water bodies or sewer lines can be fined ₹2 lakh, while those dumping waste on vacant plots can be fined ₹20,000.
The KMC also plans to request the Public Works Department (PWD), Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), and the railways to send their waste to the plant.
