Planning for reduction of odour emission from urban landfill a case of bhanpur, Bhopal

Abstract

With rapidly growing population and urbanization, solid waste is getting generated exponentially. Improper management of which leads to odour emission. Odour comes from the mixture of volatile organic compounds present in the landfill gas, leachate and leachate treatment systems, sewage sludges and waste materials. Landfill odour, is a highly toxic resulting from the microbiological and chemical decomposition of garbage in a landfill. It is principally comprised of methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide and other sulphur compounds as well as several other chemicals in smaller amounts. Odour creates nuisance affect quality of life and can impact human beings in a number of ways. Strong and unpleasant smells can cause an adverse effect on health status, social and individual life and environment. The aim of this study is to mitigate the odour emission from Bhanpur landfill in Bhopal. Population investigation method is used to identify the most vulnerable area in vicinity of the landfill. Further, health impact is assessed of the people residing within 2 km from the landfill. In order to assess the health impact and intensity of odour in different seasons, study area has been divided in 3 zones on the basis of distance from the landfill site and primary survey is conducted. Meteorological data is used to study the variation of perceived odour in summer, winter and monsoon season. Finally, a protocol is prepared to mitigate odour for short and long term.