Chennai’s New Construction Waste Rules: Clear Debris in 7 Days or Face Penalty

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has released strict guidelines for construction and demolition (C&D) waste management in the city. Under these new rules, debris must be cleared and taken to designated disposal areas within seven days. This will be enforced, with penalties for non-compliance.

New buildings will also only receive electricity and water connections after securing a completion certificate from the GCC. To enforce this regulation, Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) and the Metro Water Board have been ordered to implement it.

The Corporation also stated that there is a prohibition against dumping construction waste on roadsides, streets or vacant plots. Food waste and other wastes should be used at GCC-designated sites for disposal. Severe fines will be imposed for any breaches.

For those who own homes and are performing small renovations, the guidelines state that they can temporarily store waste on their property. However, they will have to settle for collection through private transporters or waste disposal services authorized by the GCC. If the waste is not cleared within seven days, the Corporation will remove the same, and the cost of the removal, along with a penalty, will be charged to the property owner.

Proper waste management plans are to be submitted for building plans to be sanctioned, to ensure compliance. Likewise, a Completion Certificate or an Occupancy Certificate will be issued only after proper disposal of construction waste with proof of disposal at designated sites is verified after inspection.

To raise awareness, the Gulf Coast Coalition has also launched a campaign to encourage the public to properly dispose of toxic waste. Residents can call the toll-free helpline to request pickup. Once the call is made, a GCC vehicle will pick up and where they can take the debris to an approved site.

These are the steps taken by the Corporation as it hopes to keep Chennai clean even as it seeks sustainable waste management practices within the construction sector.