Research Projects

In Kashmir, the solid waste management crises are worsening due to improper planning and lack of funding. Open dumps of municipal solid waste, open piling of extracted Dal weeds, and burning of agricultural/horticultural wastes pose significant threats to human health, economy, and the environment. The aesthetic value of the place is under threat, and water bodies are at risk of extinction due to sewage and solid waste inflow. The uncontrolled proliferation of weeds in water bodies, particularly in Dal and Wular Lakes, has created a menace of open piling at the cost of economic burden. The problem is further aggravated by seasonal burning of agricultural/horticultural wastes in rural adjoining areas of Srinagar city. Pen dumping and open burning of solid wastes are two major threats to the city environment. A research project could pave the way for solid waste management, sustainable agricultural practices, and carbon sequestration. The conversion of solid waste into biochar could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance crop productivity, and contribute to soil health management. This research project aims to reduce waste build-up through the conversion of solid waste into biochar, with objectives including production and characterization of biochar from selected solid wastes, evaluation of biochar amendment efficacy on crop growth and yield, and investigation of biochar intervention's impact on soil health.