The 225-acre Perungudi dumpyard in South Chennai is on track to cease operations by the end of 2026, marking a major milestone in the city’s efforts to improve waste management and restore the surrounding environment. The landfill, which has served as one of Chennai’s primary garbage disposal sites for decades, has long been associated with foul odours, smoke from waste fires, and environmental concerns affecting nearby residents and commuters.
The Greater Chennai Corporation is implementing a large-scale transformation plan that includes biomining legacy waste, reclaiming landfill space, and converting the area into greener public spaces. The project is expected to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and protect the nearby Pallikaranai Marsh, one of Chennai’s most important wetland ecosystems.
To support the closure of the dumpyard, the civic body has proposed a 2,500-tonne-per-day waste-to-energy plant at Keerapakkam, estimated to cost around ₹800 crore. The new facility is expected to handle the city’s municipal waste more efficiently while reducing dependence on open landfills. Tendering for the project is already underway.
Officials believe the redevelopment of Perungudi will significantly improve living conditions for thousands of residents in South Chennai while demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development. Once completed, the project is expected to transform a long-polluted landfill into a cleaner, greener landmark for future generations.
