The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is exploring the introduction of a solid waste management (SWM) tax to fund essential waste collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal infrastructure. If implemented, the tax would be added to the property tax bill, aiming to ensure environmentally responsible waste management in the city.

A civic official stated that the proposed tax could generate at least Rs 1 billion annually across 26 administrative wards. While neighbouring cities like Navi Mumbai and Thane have already integrated SWM fees into property taxes, Mumbai has yet to adopt a similar mechanism.

The BMC has submitted the proposal to its legal department for feasibility review, and a final decision is expected after the upcoming assembly elections. "We are reviewing whether the SWM tax should be part of the existing property tax structure, which already collects water and sewerage taxes, or if it should be a separate charge," said an official from the solid waste management department.

Mumbai generates large volumes of waste, including dry and kitchen waste. However, proper segregation at the source remains a challenge despite mandates under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. These rules require bulk waste generators, such as housing societies occupying more than 20,000 sq. meters or producing over 100 kg of waste daily, to segregate waste into dry and wet categories on their premises.

Non-compliance from many housing societies has led to inefficiencies in disposal, and while the BMC has attempted to enforce penalties, some residents challenged these measures in court, delaying further action. Ward-level officials have imposed fines on defaulters, but a broader mechanism for collecting SWM charges is yet to be finalized.

The BMC is consulting its legal department to determine the framework for implementing the tax and will seek public feedback through a notice after elections. "A public notice will invite suggestions and objections from citizens, and a final decision will be made post-election," said the official. Proper waste segregation, he added, would streamline disposal efforts.

Although flats measuring 500 sq. ft. and below are currently exempt from property taxes, the BMC is contemplating their inclusion under the proposed SWM tax, as these units also contribute to waste generation.

With rising expenses for garbage collection and disposal, the solid waste management department is collaborating with the property tax and assessment teams to determine a suitable fee structure. However, the final decision hinges on legal clearance and public consultation before implementation.

(Hindustan Times)