Tiruchi Corporation to boost functioning of micro composting centres

Tiruchi Corporation has drawn up a plan to improve the functioning of micro composting centres (MCCs) across the city, with a focus on achieving 100% segregation of waste at the doorstep and enhancing the quality of compost produced.

At present, about 90% of household waste is segregated at the source. The civic body aims to achieve 100% segregation and ensure all waste is properly classified into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories.

On average, the city generates around 470 tonnes of waste daily. There are 39 MCCs functioning across five zones, each processing about five to 10 tonnes of waste daily. Each centre employs four to six trained workers for collection, processing, and recycling activities.

After segregation, biodegradable waste is converted into manure in about 21 days. The compost is then dried and sieved to remove silt before being packed for distribution. The entire process takes 40 to 60 days. However, the shredding machines at some MCCs have developed technical snags, resulting in delays in manure production. Improper grinding of waste has affected the quality of compost.

“The working condition of shredding machines is being checked. Repairs will be carried out on faulty machines and those that need replacement will be identified. Other maintenance work will be undertaken at the centres,” an official said.

Earlier, the Corporation planned to procure shredding-cum-grinding machines capable of processing both dry and wet waste to improve compost quality. The machines are to be procured in a phased manner.

Meanwhile, the civic body has introduced IoT-enabled smart weighing systems at MCCs to enhance operational efficiency and streamline waste management practices. Weighing systems with a capacity of five tonnes have been installed at the MCCs in Ambedkar Nagar, Manalvarithurai, New Raja Colony, and Konakkarai. Additionally, a 60-tonne capacity system had been set up at the Ariyamangalam dump yard.

A trial run of the systems is on. Once the trials are successful, similar smart weighing systems will be installed at all MCCs across the city, the official added.