Garbage dumping, burning persist despite source segregation mandate in Erode district

Open dumping and burning of household waste continues at several locations on the outskirts of Erode district despite door-to-door collection and the administration’s emphasis on source segregation under the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026. Garbage is being dumped along roads, canals, vacant plots and agricultural land, with accumulated waste often burnt later.

The problem is particularly visible in 46 Pudur, Lakkapuram, and Muthugoundanpalayam panchayats, where rapid urbanisation has increased waste generation. Residents say gaps in collection and monitoring, along with the practice of dumping waste in vacant spaces and along roadsides, have allowed several dumping spots to persist.