Indian municipalities enforce Solid Waste Management Rules 2026

Municipal authorities in India are intensifying enforcement of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, targeting Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs) to ensure proper waste segregation and disposal.

In Kohima, the Kohima Municipal Council has directed all BWGs to register within 30 days. This includes institutions such as hospitals, hotels, and educational facilities that meet specific thresholds, such as generating 100 kg or more of solid waste daily, consuming 40,000 litres of water per day, or occupying floor areas of 20,000 square metres or more. Non-compliance may result in the temporary disconnection of water or power supplies.

In Chennai, the Greater Chennai Corporation has collected Rs 6.60 lakh in fines from 120 non-compliant BWGs over a 40-day period. Under the 2026 rules, entities must segregate waste into biodegradable, non-biodegradable, domestic, and hazardous categories using colour-coded bins. Authorities have been empowered by a Supreme Court order to levy fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 against violators.