Urbanization and Waste Generation in India: Examining the Causes and Charting a Sustainable Future

Abstract

The recent decades have noted unprecedented urban growth in India which is mainly characterized by demographic shift of population towards urban centers in pursuit of enhanced living standards and economic opportunities which has been driving urban expansion of cities. Consequently, the volume of waste produced has escalated significantly leading to profound environmental, social, and economic challenges. The influx of populations into urban centers has resulted in rapid generation of municipal solid wastes. This escalating waste stream strains existing infrastructure, resulting in inadequate collection, treatment and disposal which poses significant risks to public health and the environment. This study has been an attempt to understand the driving factors of the urban waste crisis. It is found that the key contributing factors to escalating waste generation include rising income levels, changing consumption patterns, and low public awareness regarding waste segregation practices. The fragmented governance structures and limited coordination among stakeholders further exacerbate the situation undermining effective waste management efforts. The mounting municipal solid waste challenges in India necessitates a multifaceted strategy encompassing the modernization of waste management infrastructure, cultivation of public responsibility and engagement in source segregation practices, and the systematic incorporation of sustainable waste handling protocols within urban development frameworks.