Case Study: Groundwater Contamination from Municipal Solid Waste in Alibag & Sustainable Management Strategies
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The rapid escalation of solid waste production resulting from urbanisation and evolving human behaviour poses considerable environmental and health issues worldwide, especially in India. This study examines the effects of municipal solid waste (MSW)mismanagement on groundwater quality in Alibag, a coastal town in Maharashtra that produces around 7 tonnes of MSW daily, primarily disposed of untreated at open dumping sites. Groundwater samples were obtained from three significant locations: Govind Bandar dumpingsite, Kolivada Township,and Ramnath Lake Advanced analytical methods were utilised to assess physicochemical parameters, including pH, COD, BOD, TDS, and heavy metals. Comparative evaluations against allowable thresholds indicated concerning amounts of pollution, underscoring the immediate consequences of inadequate waste disposal. Rapid urbanisation and poor solid waste management pose serious environmental and health risks, particularly in India. This study assesses the impact of municipal solid waste (MSW) mismanagement on groundwater in Alibag, Maharashtra, where 7 tonnes of untreated waste are dumped daily. Groundwater samples from Govind Bandar, Kolivada, and Ramnath Lake were analysed for pH, COD, BOD, TDS, and heavy metals, revealing contamination above permissible limits. A baseline survey showed only 27% of residents practiced waste segregation, 65% were dissatisfied with waste collection, and 40% lacked awareness of MSW policies. Post-intervention, there was a 12% rise in segregation, 15–20% improvement in disposal behavior, and a 30% drop in landfill-bound waste. The study confirms that a community-driven MSWM model with education and digital monitoring improves waste efficiency and groundwater safety, offering a replicable solution for sustainable urban management This study links scientific research to practical consequences, thereby enhancing public health and promoting sustainable development in at-risk areas.
