Kochi corp trails in e-waste collection as others advance

Time of India

22-07-2025

K
ochi: While most local bodies in Ernakulam district have launched systems to procure e-waste from residents by offering payment, Kochi corporation continues to trail behind.
Despite having a budget outlay exceeding Rs 1,200 crore, the corporation has informed Clean Kerala Company — the state-designated agency for e-waste collection — that it lacks the funds to buy e-waste from residents, resulting in a stalemate.
As a preliminary step, the corporation and Clean Kerala Company held discussions on collecting e-waste from city residents. "Clean Kerala Company insisted that we first release funds to purchase the waste, promising reimbursement later," said T K Asharaf, chairman of the corporation's health standing committee.
"Due to a financial crunch, we can't pump in the money. We've proposed that that we would arrange for residents to bring the waste to designated collection points and that the company purchase it directly from them," he added. Another round of discussions is planned to resolve the deadlock.
At the same time, other local bodies in the district have already launched e-waste collection schemes using their own funds. Maradu Municipality, for example, has formed a consortium comprising Haritha Karma Sena and municipal representatives.
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"If the consortium needs money to buy e-waste, the municipality will step in," said Maradu Municipality chairman Antony Ashanparambil.
He also highlighted issues with informal collection. "Scrap dealers often sell only the valuable parts and dump the rest. For instance, when a TV is collected, components like the picture tube, which have no resale value, are discarded improperly. When we purchase e-waste, such issues can be avoided," Ashanparambil added.
Meanwhile, the district Haritha Keralam Mission will begin e-waste collection through Haritha Karma Sena and authorised agencies by Aug 15. A review meeting of local body secretaries is scheduled for July 26 to assess training and fast-track the rollout. The programme will start in 13 municipalities and within the corporation limits. Training for Haritha Karma Sena members has already been completed.
Residents will be paid based on fixed rates for their e-waste. Collected materials will be stored in material collection facilities (MCFs) before being transported for recycling outside the state.
Clean Kerala Company, in partnership with Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Ltd (KEIL), will handle disposal. Hazardous components will be treated at KEIL's facility in Ambalamedu.