Evidence-Based Analysis of Patterns of Challenges in Solid Waste Management by Urban Local Bodies in India

Abstract

This paper involves evidence-based examination of the challenges faced by urban local bodies (ULBs) in managing solid waste, analysis of the probable causes for them, and insights into potential practical solutions within the existing legal framework. The study spans over 23 ULBs in six states from the period of 2008–2013. A pattern of critical issues identified through the analysis of performance of ULBs across various states was subjected to a detailed scrutiny to attribute performance levels to common challenges and limitations the ULBs face in the execution of components and activities of SWM within their existing system of administration and monitoring. The challenges can be largely attributed to the “silos” approach of implementing authorities towards different components of SWM and limitations of resources in monitoring functions. Effective SWM involves balancing a unique complex system of interlocks that prevails among a multitude of governing bodies, executive authorities, and service providers that have not been addressed adequately in the ULBs under study. In addition, the degree of decentralization of governance in the urban sector in India and its effect on service delivery was explored to gain a holistic picture of the position and functioning of the ULBs within the larger system of national, state, and local governments. Effort was made to arrive at solutions that the ULBs and the state governments could implement by improvising on administrative systems, making attitudinal changes and utilizing relevant technologies to augment human performance and efficiency.