Role & challenges of solid waste management system in Kalmunai municipal council

Abstract

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is a rising problem in Sri Lanka's urban areas which is aggravated due to the absence of proper solid waste management systems in the country. Solid Waste Management System (SWMS) is the one thing just about every city government provides for its residents. SWM is arguably the most important municipal service and serves as a requirement for other municipal actions. In the SWM of Kalmunai Municipal Council, the Municipal Council (MC) faces a variety of issues, both economically and environmentally. The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of the Kalmunai MC in SWMS and the issues that the management system faces in SWM practice. In this research, qualitative models were used for data collection purposes. Six key informant interviews were held with stakeholders in the SWM unit of Kalmunai MC to have wide knowledge about the challenges faced by the SWMS in Kalmunai MC. The observation was done on the compost yard located in Periya Neelavana and the recycle center in Maruthamunai. Through the study, the role of Kalmunai SWMS was evaluated which are financial facilities and financial revenue, human resources, mechanical resources, the administrative structure of SWMS in Kalmunai MC. Some challenges were analyzed through the study which is facing Kalmunai MC in waste management and practices. As a finding shows that, the social, economic and environment based challenges were evaluated within Kalmunai SWMS. Accordingly, the study proposed some recommendations to reduce and maintain the SWMS in Kalmunai municipal region.