Madurai, July 21 (IANS) The Madurai Corporation is preparing to introduce a technology-driven overhaul of its solid waste management system by combining artificial intelligence (AI), GPS-based monitoring and expanded decentralised waste processing to improve cleanliness and ensure more efficient sanitation services across the city.
The civic body has drawn up a comprehensive plan that focuses on identifying chronic garbage dumping locations, improving supervision of conservancy operations and strengthening scientific processing of biodegradable waste.
The proposed measures are aimed at tackling recurring waste accumulation, streamlining field operations and enhancing the overall efficiency of municipal sanitation services.
A key component of the initiative is the use of artificial intelligence to identify garbage-vulnerable points where waste is repeatedly dumped in violation of civic regulations. By analysing inputs from CCTV cameras and other surveillance systems, the AI platform will automatically detect areas prone to illegal dumping, allowing officials to intervene quickly and prevent garbage from piling up.
Alongside AI-based surveillance, the Corporation plans to introduce GPS-enabled monitoring of sanitation workers and waste collection vehicles. The technology will provide real-time information on field operations, helping authorities monitor vehicle movement, verify attendance, assess adherence to designated routes and ensure timely waste collection.
The system is also expected to improve accountability among conservancy staff and enable faster response to public complaints regarding sanitation services.
As part of the programme, the Corporation has identified ten garbage-vulnerable points across Madurai for intensified monitoring. Among the locations are the Vandiyur Park badminton point, the Holy Family School area and the stretch opposite the city’s fruit market.
Officials believe focused surveillance at these sites will significantly reduce repeated instances of illegal waste dumping.
The civic body has also proposed establishing five new micro-composting centres (MCCs) to process biodegradable waste generated within city limits.
Madurai currently operates 30 MCCs, and the additional facilities are expected to expand the city’s capacity for decentralised waste treatment.
Officials said decentralised composting would reduce the volume of waste transported to dumping yards, lower transportation costs and promote scientific disposal of organic waste closer to its source.
The initiative is also expected to reduce the burden on landfill sites while contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment.
Civic activists have welcomed the proposed measures but stressed that improving the efficiency of door-to-door waste collection remains equally important for achieving lasting improvements in the city’s sanitation system.
–IANS
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