An Approach to Sustainable Solid Waste Management in a Hilly Region:Case of Shillong, Meghalaya

Solid waste management has emerged as one of the most challenging subject in urban planning. The harsh reality is that, the proper management of waste is still a neglected aspect by policy makers and urban planners in many cities of India. Shillong is one of the most beautiful, yet populated hill station in North-East India and is also capital of the state Meghalaya. Because of the increasing infrastructure and Urban Growth, there has been an increase in waste generation which is imposing pressure on existing waste management practices. In order to reduce improper waste management, Shillong Municipal Corporation has taken many sustainable approaches such as, zero litter campaign, use of local bamboo bins which are well supported by traditional governance system & existing housing typology in Shillong, which establish this place a good example of waste management practices. This research is an attempt to evaluate present solid waste management practices, environment concerns and successful implementation of sustainable interventions with the help of community engagement regarding solid waste management in this hilly city of Shillong.