Mission Zero: Depalpur’s Legacy Waste Transformation
Environment · Tuesday, 1 September 2026
Depalpur in Madhya Pradesh has become the first city under the Swachh Shehar Jodi initiative to achieve Zero Legacy Waste status. The project remediated 1,250 metric tonnes of waste accumulated over five years using the 'Each One Teach One' model.
Quick highlights
- 1,250 metric tonnes of legacy waste remediated at the dumpsite.
- Followed the Swachh Shehar Jodi initiative under SBM-Urban 2.0.
- Achieved 100% door-to-door collection with four-bin segregation.
- Recovered 4.5 tonnes of recyclable materials (plastic, metal, glass).
- Generated Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) for co-processing in cement factories.
Context
Undertaken by Depalpur Nagar Parishad with mentorship from the Indore Municipal Corporation, this initiative showcases peer learning between cities for effective urban waste management.
Significance
The project reduces landfill dependence and promotes a circular economy. The remediated land is now being transformed into a green public space with native sapling plantations.
Remember this
- SBM-U 2.0 targets 100% remediation of legacy dumpsites.
- RDF: Refuse Derived Fuel.
- Indore served as the mentor city for Depalpur.
- Four-bin segregation: Dry, Wet, Hazardous, and Sanitary waste.