The Coldplay concerts in Navi Mumbai were a shining example of environmental responsibility, thanks to the hard work and leadership of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC). The city’s “Zero Waste” initiative during this high-profile event was carried out to perfection, with the NMMC leading the way in sustainable waste management and setting a strong precedent for future events.
Effective waste management by the NMMC
Under the directive of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, the NMMC took proactive steps to manage waste during the Coldplay concerts (18th, 19th, and 21st January). Over the three days of the event, more than 150 local ‘Sakhis’ were deployed to segregate waste at the source, supported by over 100 sanitation workers. The team worked tirelessly each night to ensure the venue remained clean and organised, with all litter cleared promptly after each concert. The NMMC’s commitment to waste management was evident through their consistent and efficient clean-up efforts throughout the event.
Responsible disposal and recycling: 82.15 tonnes of dry and wet waste
The three-day event generated around 82.15 tonnes of waste, which had included 33.375 tonnes of wet waste and 48.475 tonnes of dry waste. The NMMC’s meticulous approach didn’t just focus on collecting waste—it also involved a well-organised recycling initiative. In partnership with Bisleri, plastic bottles were efficiently gathered and sent for recycling, in line with the Swachh Bharat Mission’s guidelines. The NMMC’s strategy covered every aspect of waste management, ensuring not only cleanliness but also responsible disposal and recycling.
Swift and efficient clean-up operations
What truly stood out was the scale of the NMMC’s efforts and the success of their execution. Unlike many large events that leave venues littered, the NMMC demonstrated that with careful planning and commitment, even a high-profile concert can be managed sustainably. The swift and efficient clean-up operation was a proud reflection of the NMMC’s organisational skill, and it was this proactive approach that allowed the city to maintain its reputation for cleanliness and environmental responsibility.
The tireless efforts of the ‘Sakhis’, and other NMMC workers
The true heroes of this success were the NMMC workers, especially the ‘Parisar Sakhis’, who showed exceptional dedication throughout the event. In the face of a massive crowd and the pressures of an international concert, these workers kept the venue clean and organised, working tirelessly through the day and night. Their commitment to the task, no matter the hour or the challenge, was key in ensuring that the city’s “Zero Waste” initiative not only succeeded but set a new benchmark for how large events should be handled.
Setting an example of the “Zero Waste” Campaign
Though the Coldplay concerts wrapped up over a week ago, the legacy of the NMMC’s “Zero Waste” campaign continues to resonate. It serves as an excellent example of how local administration, when taking full charge of waste management, can ensure that large-scale events do not come at the expense of the environment. This achievement sets a new standard for future events, not just in Navi Mumbai, but across the country.
Acknowledgement from local residents
Thanks to the NMMC, Navi Mumbai has again demonstrated its commitment to sustainability, and residents have expressed appreciation for the hard work and dedication displayed by the ‘Sakhis’ and other sanitation workers. Early morning joggers and walkers were pleasantly surprised to find the area spotless after each concert night, with many praising the NMMC for the quick and efficient clean-up. Their efforts went a long way in ensuring that the city continues to be a cleaner, more environmentally-conscious place.
Last Updated on January 29, 2025 by Staff Reporter
