Hazardous Waste Generation, Impact on Environment and Management: an Observational Survey of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Hazardous wastes may be found in different physical states such as gaseous, liquids and solids that are characterized by toxicity, ignitability, reactivity and corrosivity. These wastes can harm all kinds of living organisms including human beings, if they encounter these toxins buried in the soil and in groundwater that supplies drinking water. An observational survey on generation of hazardous wastes was done in Udaipur and its surrounding areas and to assess problems associated with hazardous waste disposal. Hazardous waste site selection was done keeping in view the slurry produced by marble processing industries, e-wastes, unauthorized solid waste dump yards and man-made reservoirs viz. Pichhola, Fatehsagar and Udaisagar lakes of the city, used as major drains for chemical and organic wastes. The present communication also deliberates on different techniques of minimizing various hazardous wastes for sustainable development. Results of personal observations during the survey are compiled to create an overall understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the hazardous materials handling system.