No disposal proof, no clearance: How Gurugram plans to tackle construction waste

The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has implemented new measures to curb construction and demolition (C&D) waste, aiming to address dust pollution and improve waste management in the city. The directive, issued by MCG Commissioner Pradeep Dahiya on Tuesday, eliminates exemptions for public works and treats all projects within MCG limits as producer or builder equivalent, irrespective of size or cost.

Applicants undertaking demolition on plots of 200 square metres or larger must now declare estimated rubble volumes when seeking building plan sanctions. To secure an online receipt for debris disposal, builders must deposit the waste at MCG’s Basai plant or designated locations before construction begins. An Occupancy Certificate (OC) or Completion Certificate (CC) cannot be issued until this receipt is verified online and confirmed through a site inspection.

For larger projects with a built-up area of 20,000 square metres or more, developers, classified as producers, are required to submit an Integrated Waste Management Plan to MCG within 30 days. These producers cannot use doorstep collection and must transport waste directly to recycling plants in their own vehicles. Government projects must specify projected waste volumes in tenders and ensure disposal at Basai or via mobile units.

The directive also mandates that builders annually increase the use of recycled materials in buildings and roads. For buildings, this increases from 5% in 2026 to 25% by 2030, while for roads, the target rises from 15% by 2030. Recycling plants must submit monthly lab-tested quality certifications, and recycled materials are restricted to non-structural items such as sidewalk tiles, curbs, and drain covers.

Strict timelines are enforced to prevent street blockages. Rubble from road repairs must be cleared within 72 hours, while pipeline excavations must be cleared within the same timeframe. Rubble left on public spaces must be removed within 24 hours. Violations will result in environmental compensation through the State Pollution Board, with serious offenses referred to CAQM for prosecution under Section 14 of the CAQM Act.