The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has embarked on an ambitious plan to clear over one lakh metric tonnes of accumulated legacy waste in Tirumala. This monumental project, addressing decades of neglect, includes both immediate and sustainable waste management strategies.
Current Progress and Challenges
Of the 2.45 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste identified, 1.85 lakh MT has been treated, producing by-products like 34,000 MT of reusable soil, 15,000 MT of refuse-derived fuel, and 10,000 MT of stones. However, 60,000 MT remains untreated. Daily waste generation adds to the complexity, with 60–70 MT produced daily, creating logistical hurdles in storage and processing. The inability to transfer large amounts of waste to Tirupati for treatment has forced TTD to focus on-site solutions.
Environmental Concerns
The prolonged waste accumulation poses severe ecological risks. Experts highlight the production of toxic leachate from organic waste, which threatens nearby water sources, including the Gogarbham reservoir. TTD officials are prioritizing measures to mitigate these risks by treating untreated waste and reusing treated materials safely.
Strategic Partnerships and Long-Term Plans
The Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS) has provided actionable strategies, prompting TTD to seek consultants for designing a long-term waste management framework. Collaboration with Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) aims to optimize Tirumala’s drainage and water systems by integrating stormwater separation and water recycling technologies.
Immediate and Future Goals
In the short term, TTD plans to clear the remaining legacy waste and enhance infrastructure for daily waste processing. Long-term objectives include eco-friendly practices, comprehensive water recycling, and reducing dependency on external treatment facilities. By aligning these efforts with environmental standards, TTD envisions a cleaner, sustainable Tirumala tailored to its unique needs.
This initiative reflects TTD’s commitment to balancing ecological preservation with the spiritual sanctity of the temple town.
