Press Release
Press Release from the Office of Minister, Urban Development Department
Information & Public Relations Department
Hon’ble UDD Minister Conducts Site Visit to Martam Landfill Facility; Key Directions Issued for Immediate Implementation
Martam, July 25, 2025:
The Hon’ble Minister of the Urban Development Department (UDD) visited the Martam Landfill Facility for a detailed on-site inspection aimed at reviewing the operational status of the facility and assessing critical areas for improvement. The visit marked a coordinated effort to strengthen solid waste management practices and address key environmental concerns.
The Minister was accompanied by the Hon’ble Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC), the Hon’ble Ward Councilor of Lal Bazar Ward, Commissioner-cum-Secretary UDD, Secretary UDD, Chief Engineer UDD, Municipal Commissioner GMC, Joint Municipal Commissioner GMC, Joint Secretary UDD, Divisional Engineer GMC, Mission Director SBM, Assistant and Junior Engineers from GMC, the SBM-PMU team, and representatives from GNS Builders.
During the inspection, the Hon’ble Minister acknowledged the efforts undertaken in waste segregation, composting, and site maintenance. However, he expressed serious concern over the significant volume of legacy waste that continues to occupy space and pose environmental challenges. He issued a directive to expedite the removal and scientific disposal of legacy waste through close coordination among UDD, GMC, and relevant executing agencies.
Recognizing the need for technology-driven solutions, the Minister instructed the immediate installation of an auto-segregator and incinerator to enhance waste processing capacity and operational efficiency. While the existing leachate collection system was found to be functional, it was deemed inadequate for peak seasonal loads, and expansion was recommended.
The issue of odour and visual impact from the landfill was also addressed. The Minister stressed the importance of developing a green buffer zone around the facility to reduce the impact on nearby communities and improve environmental aesthetics.
A critical concern raised during the visit was the landslide vulnerability along the approach road leading to the landfill. The Hon’ble Minister directed engineering teams to undertake immediate mitigation works, including slope stabilization, drainage improvement, and safety measures to ensure uninterrupted access.
In his closing remarks, the Minister emphasized the need to improve internal infrastructure such as roads, weighbridges, and signage to streamline operations and ensure safety. He also called for regular site inspections and progress reviews to monitor the implementation of directives and ensure accountability.
The visit concluded on a proactive and solution-driven note, reinforcing the Government of Sikkim’s commitment to sustainable, efficient, and environmentally sound waste management practices.
Martam, July 25, 2025:
The Hon’ble Minister of the Urban Development Department (UDD) visited the Martam Landfill Facility for a detailed on-site inspection aimed at reviewing the operational status of the facility and assessing critical areas for improvement. The visit marked a coordinated effort to strengthen solid waste management practices and address key environmental concerns.
The Minister was accompanied by the Hon’ble Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC), the Hon’ble Ward Councilor of Lal Bazar Ward, Commissioner-cum-Secretary UDD, Secretary UDD, Chief Engineer UDD, Municipal Commissioner GMC, Joint Municipal Commissioner GMC, Joint Secretary UDD, Divisional Engineer GMC, Mission Director SBM, Assistant and Junior Engineers from GMC, the SBM-PMU team, and representatives from GNS Builders.
During the inspection, the Hon’ble Minister acknowledged the efforts undertaken in waste segregation, composting, and site maintenance. However, he expressed serious concern over the significant volume of legacy waste that continues to occupy space and pose environmental challenges. He issued a directive to expedite the removal and scientific disposal of legacy waste through close coordination among UDD, GMC, and relevant executing agencies.
Recognizing the need for technology-driven solutions, the Minister instructed the immediate installation of an auto-segregator and incinerator to enhance waste processing capacity and operational efficiency. While the existing leachate collection system was found to be functional, it was deemed inadequate for peak seasonal loads, and expansion was recommended.
The issue of odour and visual impact from the landfill was also addressed. The Minister stressed the importance of developing a green buffer zone around the facility to reduce the impact on nearby communities and improve environmental aesthetics.
A critical concern raised during the visit was the landslide vulnerability along the approach road leading to the landfill. The Hon’ble Minister directed engineering teams to undertake immediate mitigation works, including slope stabilization, drainage improvement, and safety measures to ensure uninterrupted access.
In his closing remarks, the Minister emphasized the need to improve internal infrastructure such as roads, weighbridges, and signage to streamline operations and ensure safety. He also called for regular site inspections and progress reviews to monitor the implementation of directives and ensure accountability.
The visit concluded on a proactive and solution-driven note, reinforcing the Government of Sikkim’s commitment to sustainable, efficient, and environmentally sound waste management practices.