In a monumental effort to restore the ecological balance of the holy hill town of Tirumala, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has launched an ambitious project aimed at clearing a staggering one lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste that has accumulated over several decades. This long-overdue waste management initiative is part of a broader plan to protect the town’s environment and sustain its spiritual and cultural heritage.
A Waste Problem of Historic Proportions
Tirumala, known for housing the world-famous Venkateswara Temple, has been grappling with an ongoing waste management crisis. Over the years, nearly 2.45 lakh metric tonnes of waste had accumulated, with only a fraction of it being addressed. As of now, the TTD has successfully treated 1.85 lakh metric tonnes, leaving approximately 60,000 metric tonnes still untreated.
This waste, which includes both wet and dry refuse, poses a severe ecological threat. Experts caution that untreated organic waste can decompose and produce harmful leachate, a toxic liquid that can contaminate soil and water sources like the nearby Gogarbham reservoir. The urgency of the matter has prompted the TTD to seek both short-term and long-term solutions.
Immediate Challenges and Solutions
The waste management task at Tirumala is a complex one, involving both the legacy waste and the 60–70 metric tonnes of fresh waste the town generates daily. Due to logistical constraints, particularly the difficulty in transporting waste to nearby Tirupati for treatment, the TTD has shifted its focus to on-site waste management solutions.
With the support of expert consultants, including the Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS), the TTD has devised an action plan that prioritizes the clearing of the remaining untreated legacy waste. Additionally, the treatment of waste has resulted in by-products, including 34,000 metric tonnes of treated soil, 15,000 metric tonnes of refuse-derived fuel (RDF), and 10,000 metric tonnes of stones. The TTD is now exploring innovative ways to repurpose these materials, minimizing environmental impact.
Long-Term Vision for Sustainable Waste Management
The TTD’s approach isn’t just about addressing immediate concerns. The organization is committed to creating a sustainable, long-term waste management system for Tirumala. One major initiative is the separation of the town’s underground drainage and stormwater systems. This will enhance the efficiency of waste disposal and water management.
Further steps include building water recycling systems to minimize dependence on fresh water and procuring advanced equipment to streamline waste treatment processes. The TTD is also exploring eco-friendly waste disposal practices to ensure that future waste management efforts align with environmental standards and contribute to the long-term well-being of the region.
Collaborating for Success
A significant part of the TTD’s strategy involves collaboration with the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), which is providing valuable insights into improving the town’s infrastructure. By integrating sustainable water and waste management practices, the TTD hopes to reduce the environmental footprint of Tirumala while continuing to uphold its role as a spiritual center.
A Greener, Cleaner Tirumala Ahead
With the combined focus on immediate waste treatment, infrastructure improvement, and sustainable practices, the TTD is laying the foundation for a cleaner, greener, and more ecologically responsible Tirumala. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the sacred hill town not only remains a place of spiritual significance but also serves as a model for other pilgrimage sites around the world in terms of environmental sustainability.
As Tirumala works towards tackling its waste challenges, it sends a powerful message about the importance of responsible waste management in preserving both our sacred spaces and the environment for future generations.
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