Biomedical Waste Management in Buxar District, India: Challenges and Strategies

Author(s): Ajay Kumar Thakur

Abstract:

Biomedical waste management (BMWM) in India is governed by the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Effective handling of such waste requires proper segregation, timely collection, and the use of environmentally responsible treatment methods such as incineration, autoclaving, and plasma pyrolysis. These steps are vital for reducing health risks and environmental degradation. In rural districts like Buxar, managing biomedical waste presents unique challenges. This study explores the current practices and issues surrounding BMWM in Buxar, where a lack of adequate infrastructure, improper segregation, and low awareness among healthcare providers and the general public hinder effective waste handling. Common but unsafe practices, such as open burning and dumping of biomedical waste, pose severe threats to both human health and the ecosystem. Although the regulatory framework exists, its enforcement is weak, resulting in poor adherence to the guidelines. To address these shortcomings, the study suggests several improvement strategies, including increased community involvement, educational campaigns, and the development of localized treatment solutions. Strengthening infrastructure, providing training for healthcare personnel, and ensuring stricter policy enforcement are critical steps toward achieving sustainable and effective biomedical waste management in rural settings like Buxar. This article explores the state of biomedical waste management, its environmental consequences, and outlines suitable management practices that can be adopted to address these pressing concerns.

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Pages: 124-129     |    2 View     |    0 Download