The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is working on a proposal to introduce a budget-friendly waste management plan by using the `Black Hole’ technology. If the project, which is at the initial stage, gets approved and is implemented, it will provide a solution to the city’s chronic waste management woes.
The technology, known as super plasma decomposition, uses low-temperature plasma (ionized gas) to convert garbage into ceramic ash.
The BMC has been facing challenges in tackling the garbage disposal problem as dumping grounds have reached a saturation point. The ‘Black Hole’ machine uses a US patented technology to melt garbage — from domestic to specific industrial waste — without using fuel or any additional source of electricity.
Udaykumar Shirudkar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of B/Ward, said civic officials are currently assessing the feasibility of using the technology for solid waste management in the city. “I visited Hyderabad in March to learn about the technology. The machine is small and can be installed anywhere in the city for garbage disposal without segregating dry and wet waste,” said Shirudkar. The machine has been tested, and is currently in use, in Hyderabad.
Shirudkar added, “The technology does not require fuel, except for a one-time lighting up of the garbage”. The machine melts garbage in a magnetic field chamber with controlled air flow. However, it cannot process metal, glass and concrete waste. This would mean that the same has to be segregated from the waste before processing.`
Shirudkar said the machine will cost about Rs 75 lakh, and can be installed within the city. “If all goes well, the machine will be installed in B/Ward’s Masjid area,” he added.
