A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1993

Birganj, a rapidly urbanising city is under the administration of Birganj Municipality. The commercial and industrial activities have caused high population growth. In spite of a sound financial source Birganj faces the severe deficiency in urban infrastructure services. This study is an attempt to assess the solid waste management system in Birganj for possible improvement. Since, solid waste management covers a wide field therefore this study was limited only to domestic solid wastes, the prime waste source. Birganj Municipality runs a regular waste management service with least priority in comparison to other services. The waste management system is poor due to the poor organizational setup and lack of trained manpower in the sanitation section. So, the recommendation for reorganising and strengthening of sanitation section and to improve the system is made. There is no clear financial allocation for waste management nor there are any waste management plan and programme. Recommendation for delegation of power to sanitation section and preparation of waste management plan and programme by sanitation section for short term and long term is proposed. The available rules and regulations for carrying out the solid waste management activity is recommended to be enforced, and the possibility of collection of service charge for sustainability is proposed. The average domestic solid waste production rate observed was 160 gms/cap/day and the general generation rate calculated is 355.5 gms/cap/day. The density of domestic solid waste calculated was 394 kg. per cubic metre. Regular analysis of waste is recommended for strategic and long term planning and facilitating decision on solid waste management system. In addition to sh01t term measure, the whole system should be reformed based on sustainability, applicability and adaptability with the help of nonconventional methods such as public participation and awareness programme. There is no organised recycling activity nor the informal sector involved in it is provided with sufficient incentives and facilities. Recommendation for promotion of recycling at different levels with a view on environmental conse1vation at different level is made. This study mainly covers the management of domestic solid waste, but studies on general solid waste management, management of commercial, industrial and hazardous wastes, possibility of privatizing solid waste management and organised recycling is recommended for further research.