Smart sanitation drive set to transform Gwadar’s waste system as the government has allocated Rs 200 million for this purpose.
Under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative, the government of Pakistan has allocated Rs 200 million for the initial phase of the Gwadar Smart Environment Sanitation System and Landfill Project. This project has secured approvals from the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and the Central Development Working Party, supported by a detailed PC-1 and comprehensive feasibility study.
Director General of Gwadar Development Authority (GDA), Saif Ullah Khaithran, stated that the initiative aims to establish a modern waste management system. The project will focus on efficient collection, recycling, and disposal of residential and commercial waste using advanced procedures and cutting-edge equipment.
Gwadar city alone produced over 20 tons of waste daily in 2024, a significant increase from the 5 tons per day recorded in 2010, due to expanding commercial activity and rising residential development.
Currently, most solid waste in Gwadar is dumped in unregulated sites or open spaces. While a large portion of this waste is non-toxic and suitable for recycling, certain elements pose serious health and environmental hazards.
The project’s objective is to create a smart, sustainable sanitation and waste management system for Gwadar. It will incorporate both mechanical and manual cleaning using equipment such as sprinkler and sweeper trucks. Additionally, sealed waste containers will be placed in public and residential areas, with systematic door-to-door waste collection and efficient transportation methods.
A significant share of solid waste is biodegradable, which is particularly problematic as it rapidly decomposes, attracting pests and generating unpleasant odors through aerobic processes. This waste also releases greenhouse gases. The most effective way to manage it is through anaerobic digestion in sealed chambers, producing biogas for clean energy and organic compost, while also generating carbon credits.
Currently, only around half of the total solid waste in Pakistan is collected. Recycling remains one of the most efficient strategies for reducing waste, conserving resources, and reintroducing materials into the production cycle.
Related Posts
