Hyderabad: GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan on Thursday launched a QR-based e-waste disposal ecosystem to ensure safe and sustainable handling of electronic waste across the city.
The initiative aims to streamline collection and processing of e-waste through authorised channels. Officials said improper disposal of electronic waste posed serious risks to health and the environment. They noted that the Government of India classifies e-waste as a special category requiring regulated handling.
Since January 2026, GHMC has conducted collection drives and awareness campaigns. However, the Commissioner said the new e-waste disposal ecosystem would provide a long-term and self-sustaining solution for citizens.
As part of the system, GHMC has installed 30 e-waste drop boxes at major electronics retail outlets. These include stores such as BigC, BNew, Happi, LOT, Sangeetha, Select, and Touch. Citizens can locate drop points using QR access and dispose of electronic waste safely.
In addition, the e-waste disposal ecosystem includes a doorstep pickup service. GHMC has partnered with authorised recyclers for this purpose. Citizens will soon be able to request pickups through a QR-enabled platform.
Participating recyclers include Earth Sense, Recytronics, Pure Earth, Z Enviro, and Green Enviro. Officials said all agencies had been onboarded and trained to handle e-waste in compliance with regulations.
E-waste disposal ecosystem expands services
The Commissioner said awareness and collection drives would be conducted at the ward level. These programmes aim to educate citizens about safe disposal practices. All collected material will be processed by authorised recyclers.
He added that citizens using the e-waste disposal ecosystem would receive appreciation certificates and reward points. These points can be redeemed at approved self-help groups, including Shilparamam and partner agencies.
The initiative is expected to improve source segregation and increase public participation. It will also enable better tracking of waste and reduce landfill burden.
The Commissioner launched the programme at electronics stores in Ameerpet. Representatives from recycling firms and GHMC officials attended the event.