Compost From Bengaluru’s Wet Waste Bring Relief to Farmers, Over 4000 Tons Sold

Most of the metropolitan cities in India have been actively advocating the benefits of segregating one’s household waste lately.

And it looks like the initiative has paid off well in Bengaluru with over 4,000 tonnes of compost – processed out of wet waste – being sold out in just five months, according to the Times of India.

The initiative was propelled by the Karnataka State Compost Development Corporation (KSCDC), under which the wet waste supplied by the citizens of the city was transformed in organic compost.

This, in turn, was made available in the markets for the farmers, who are now able to reap a better yield in comparatively lower prices.

Over 600 tonnes of segregated wet waste, which was collected in the city, was processed into a whopping 4,306 tonnes of organic compost that was met with a great demand by the farmers.

“Three months ago, I requested for 10 tonnes of compost for my one-and-half acre land. While the entire quantity couldn’t be procured, I did get eight tonnes of compost. Today, at ₹800 per tonne, which is one-fourth the price of inorganic fertilizers, I’m able to get a much better yield,” said B Byregowda, a middle-aged farmer in Bagalur.

The Agriculture Department has shared that the compost is being supplied to the farmers at a subsidised rate, where the state government is sharing 50 per cent of the costs.

“Such has been the demand that there is zero stock of compost with KSCDC now. We are looking at more segregated waste which will help make compost on a regular basis,” said Krishna Byregowda, who is the state’s Minister of Agriculture.

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Considering the benefits, regarding yield and economic ability of the farmers, the state government is planning on roping in private organisations who will be able to expand the reach, supply the increasing demand and keep the supply consistent.

At present, city-based service provider IL&FS Environment Infrastructure and Services Limited has been sanctioned the responsibility to supply the processed compost to farmers in Bengaluru and adjoining districts.

“We intend to expand these operations to provide farmers with a consistent supply of compost. This will help in quicker disposal of segregated waste and also ensure quality manure,” the minister added.

Reportedly, farmers from as far as Kolar and Bagalkunte have subscribed to the city’s compost.

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