Risk analysis of route choices for construction and demolition waste disposal planning using geospatial technology

Construction and demolition waste (C&DW) is increasing at an alarming rate globally. It is estimated that worldwide, C&DW occupies over 17,420,000 km2 of land with an average depth of around 15.25 m, amounting to an astonishing 2.7 billion cubic meters of landfill space. The annual generation of C&D debris in India is up to 150 million tons. This study examines the use of geospatial technology to effectively manage C&DW disposal in the legal dumping yards of Chennai. Data were collected on C&DW in Chennai, which has 15 legal dumping sites and two recycling units in Perungudi and Kodungaiyur. Geospatial technology was applied to analyze optimal route planning, considering sources, and C&DW disposal locations, with two scenarios: the stationary container system and the hauled container system. The results suggest that the hauled container system is Chennai’s most suitable debris collection method, providing an optimal route with reduced environmental pollution. These findings are helpful for urban planners and environmental engineers, assisting in transforming old urban areas into new smart cities through effective planning and design.