Lakshya Zero Dumpsite: 61% of legacy waste processed

What happened
- Over 61% of legacy waste in city dumpsites has been processed under Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) [PIB].
- 214 high-impact sites holding nearly 80% of the remaining waste are the priority; the Dumpsite Remediation Accelerator Programme was launched in November 2025 [PIB].
Background
- Legacy dumps like Ghazipur and Deonar catch fire, release methane and pollute groundwater.
Why it matters
- Cleared land can be used for green cover or city infrastructure.
How to use this in Mains
- As per PIB (2026-01-31): over 61% of legacy waste in city dumpsites has been processed under Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban).
- Cleared land can be used for green cover or city infrastructure.
Quotable data point214 high-impact sites holding nearly 80% of the remaining waste are the priority; the Dumpsite Remediation Accelerator Programme was launched in November 2025.
PIB: PIB Backgrounder: Lakshya Zero Dumpsite, 31 Jan 2026
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: SBM-U 2.0.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
Legacy waste processed
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Priority sites
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
DRAP launched
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Go deeper
ExplainerUrbanisation in India: Census Definitions, Trends, Causes, Problems, 74th Amendment, Urban Missions and Way Forward (UPSC Notes + PYQs)ExplainerPlastic Pollution: Sources, Microplastics, Plastic Waste Management Rules, Single-Use Plastic Ban, EPR and the Global Plastics Treaty (UPSC Notes + PYQs)
Official source: PIB: PIB Backgrounder: Lakshya Zero Dumpsite, 31 Jan 2026
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending