Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, is grappling with severe challenges in Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) due to rapid urbanization and population growth. The city generates approximately 800 metric tons (MT) of solid waste daily, of which only about 450-500 MT of degradable waste and 150-200 MT of non-degradable waste are collected, resulting in a collection coverage of approximately 87.5%. The primary disposal methods include open dumping and composting, which are increasingly inadequate for the city’s growing waste output. A significant portion of MSWM costs in Colombo is allocated to waste collection and transportation rather than disposal and treatment. The current practice involves transporting all waste from households to disposal stations along predetermined routes. This process is not only labour-intensive but also incurs high fuel and maintenance costs, contributing to inefficiencies and environmental degradation.
The core issue lies in the lack of an optimized vehicle routing system for waste collection and transportation. Inefficient routing results in increased operational costs, higher emissions, and extended collection times, further exacerbating the challenges faced by municipal authorities. Improving the routing system could minimize the total distance traveled, reduce costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of the waste collection process. Furthermore, the problem is compounded by the absence of adequate infrastructure for waste processing and disposal, alongside public resistance to proper waste management practices. Optimizing vehicle routing is crucial for addressing these challenges and achieving a more sustainable and cost-effective waste management system in Colombo.