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The Dapodi Zero-Waste Project, initiated by Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), is proving to be more than just a cleanliness drive by empowering women, creating jobs, and promoting a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle. Under this initiative, household waste is collected daily, scientifically processed, and converted into nutrient-rich compost that benefits farmers, civic officials said.
The project is being implemented under the guidance of PCMC Commissioner and Administrator Shekhar Singh, Additional Commissioner Vijaykumar Khorate, and led by Deputy Commissioner Sachin Pawar. Managed by the Health Department, the entire operation is run by members of a local women’s self-help group, who have been provided with adequate health and safety facilities at the site.
Currently, waste is collected from 428 households every day. After segregation into wet and dry waste, it is processed using advanced equipment including dust separators, agglomerator machines, hydraulic presses, and semi-automatic composting machines. The resulting organic manure is made available for agricultural use, reducing landfill burden and promoting circular economy practices.
“The Dapodi Zero-Waste Project is not just about waste management; it is a remarkable example of women’s empowerment and sustainable living. This initiative is creating employment opportunities for women while setting a new direction for waste management in the city,” said Vijaykumar Khorate, Additional Commissioner, PCMC
Highlighting the importance of involvement of women Sachin Pawar, Deputy Commissioner, PCMC, said, “Our focus has been to go beyond waste collection and implement a scientifically sound, technology-driven process for compost production. By involving women’s groups, we have turned this initiative into a model for future sustainable waste management.”
