BMC to appoint NEERI for ₹3.01-crore study on methane emissions at Kanjurmarg dump

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will appoint the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) to conduct a two-year scientific study at the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, following Bombay High Court directions. The study, estimated at ₹3.01 crore, will assess methane emissions, air quality, odour levels and other pollutants at the facility.

Mumbai generates approximately 6,300 metric tonnes of waste daily, with nearly 90% processed at Kanjurmarg—1,000 MT through windrow composting and 5,300 MT through bioreactor technology. However, potential methane emissions from the site have raised environmental concerns. The court, citing a UCLA study during a PIL hearing, directed an independent scientific assessment to quantify emissions and their environmental impact.

NEERI will use ground sensors, drone surveys, satellite imagery and GIS-based mapping to identify methane hotspots and recommend preventive measures. Progress reports are due at six, 12 and 18-month intervals, with the final report after 24 months. The proposal will be placed before the BMC Standing Committee for consideration.