Chennai: Federation of North Chennai Residents’ Welfare Associations (FNCRWA) has urged the civic body to reopen 168 closed microcomposting centres and 88 material recovery facilities. The activists and residents said that strengthening such a network across the city would reduce the quantity of mixed waste transported over long distances and dumped at Kodungaiyur. “While microcomposting centres can process biodegradable waste closer to where it is generated and convert it into compost or biogas, material recovery facilities can help segregate recyclable materials and expand their reuse,” said T K Shanmugam, president of FNCRWA.The association has also called on govt to permanently close the existing 50 tonne incinerator and drop the proposed 2,100 tonne waste-to-energy (WTE) plant at Kodungaiyur.“Incinerators emit toxins beyond safe limits, turning cities into health hazards. A survey conducted earlier this year showed that the 50 tonne plant has caused serious damage. If 2,100 tonnes are burned, the air in the entire city could turn toxic. The upcoming WTE project will only benefit private firms, not the people. Govt must permanently shut the existing unit and scrap expansion plans,” said Geo Damin, of Poovulagin Nanbargal.When contacted GCC commissioner G S Sameeran said that if the WTE project in Kodungaiyur is implemented, it would operate strictly in accordance with prescribed environmental and safety guidelines. The decision on the reopening of the microcomposting centre and material recovery facilities in the city would be taken after discussions with the concerned authorities, he added.
