Dimapur: Chumoukedima DC Polan John on Tuesday directed stakeholders, particularly identified bulk waste generators (BWGs), to comply with Supreme Court’s directions and the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026.Addressing a workshop on bulk waste generators at the deputy commissioner’s office, John called for collective responsibility in managing solid waste.He warned that violations could attract environmental compensation under the “polluter pays” principle and other enforcement measures. Persistent non-compliance could also lead to the disconnection of water and electricity supplies in accordance with Supreme Court’s directions and applicable legal provisions, he said.John stressed that solid waste management was not the responsibility of sanitation workers alone but required the participation of individuals, households, institutions and commercial establishments.Referring to SC’s observations, he highlighted the fundamental duty under Article 51A(g) of the Constitution to protect and improve the environment. He also said the right to a clean and healthy environment was linked to the right to life under Article 21.DC said the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, apply to both urban and rural areas. Individuals and institutions are required to segregate and store waste before handing it over to the appropriate authority in accordance with the rules, he said.Under the rules, an entity is classified as a bulk waste generator if it meets any one of three criteria: a floor area of at least 20,000 square metres, daily water consumption of at least 40,000 litres, or daily solid waste generation of at least 100 kg.John said identified BWGs were required to establish the necessary waste-management infrastructure on their premises, appropriately manage and process their waste, register on the designated online portal and submit compliance reports. Their premises would also be subject to inspection.He particularly stressed the need for BWGs to process wet waste on their premises, including through suitable composting facilities. The departments concerned and Nagaland Pollution Control Board could provide technical guidance, he said.
