Court directive to add to Kochi Corporation’s Brahmapuram biomining costs

The Kerala High Court issued a directive that expands the scope of the Brahmapuram biomining project, requiring the Kochi Corporation to handle an extra 1.26 lakh tonnes of scientifically capped legacy waste. The original agreement, reached between the corporation and the state, set the price at ₹1,672 per tonne for processing 1.96 lakh tonnes, a commitment that would cost the civic body roughly ₹37 crore. The new order brings the total volume to nearly 3.22 lakh tonnes, reflecting the court's assessment that the earlier plan did not fully address the environmental burden left by the landfill.

Biomining is a technique that uses microorganisms to break down hazardous components in solid waste, turning them into less harmful substances. The Brahmapuram site, once a major dumping ground for the city, has long been a source of concern for residents due to leachate and air quality issues. By increasing the amount of waste subjected to biomining, the court aims to accelerate the reduction of pollutants and improve the health of surrounding neighborhoods. The corporation will need to secure additional funding and technical capacity to meet the expanded target within the stipulated timeline.

The ruling underscores the growing judicial involvement in environmental management in Kerala. Local activists have praised the decision, noting that it aligns with broader state goals of sustainable waste handling. For the Kochi Corporation, the challenge now lies in balancing the financial implications with the urgent need to mitigate the legacy waste's impact on public health and the environment.