Informatics Publishing Limited

P. Shanthi ¹, P. Meena Sundari ², T. Meenambal ³

Affiliations
1 Department of Civil Engineering, Karpagam University, Coimbatore, T. N., IN
2 Department of Chemistry, Jansons Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, T. N., IN
3 Department of Civil Engineering, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, T. N., IN

Abstract

Municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is one of the major environmental problems of Indian cities. Improper management of municipal solid waste (MSW) causes hazards to inhabitants. Various studies reveal that about 90% of MSW is disposed of unscientifically in open dumps and landfills, create problems to public health and the environment. This paper presents an assessment of the existing situation of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in Coimbatore city. The quantity and composition of MSW vary from place to place, and bear a rather consistent correlation with the average standard of living. Field investigations were carried out for quantification, analysis of physico chemical composition, and characterization in disposal site. Studies carried out in these places have revealed that there are many shortcomings in the existing practices used in managing the MSW. These shortcomings pertain mainly to inadequate manpower, financial resources, implements and machinery required for effectively carrying out various activities for MSWM. Various adopted treatment technologies for MSW are critically reviewed, along with their advantages and limitations. The study is concluded with a few fruitful suggestions, which may be beneficial to encourage the competent authorities/researchers to work towards further improvement of the present system.

Keywords

Municipal Solid Waste, Waste Characterization, Organic Matter.

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P. Meena Sundari ¹, K. Senthamil Selvan ¹, T. Meenambal ²

Affiliations
1 Department of Chemistry, Jansons Institute of Technology, Coimbatore-641 659, Tamil Nadu, IN
2 Department of Civil Engineering, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, IN

Abstract

The main objective of the study is focused on water quality assessment of various surface water bodies in the Coimbatore city during winter (January 2011) and summer (April 2011). About 75% of the population in the area selected depends on the lake water for domestic purposes, agriculture and industrial purposes. Water samples were collected from four lakes in and around Coimbatore having the same source. The physical and chemical parameters like pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, hardness, concentration of calcium, magnesium, iron, free ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, chloride, fluoride, sulphate and phosphate were analysed and compared with standard techniques. The data were analysed by comparing the values with BIS standards. The studies revealed that water in all the four surface water bodies are to be pre-treated suitably and could be employed for drinking, agriculture and industrial purposes.

Keywords

Water Quality, Lakes, Surface Water Bodies, Coimbatore City.

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