NIT-C to Submit Brahmapuram Legacy Waste Report on May 11

The National Institute of Technology-Calicut (NIT-C) is scheduled to submit its report on May 11, 2026, assessing the volume of legacy waste remaining for bio-mining at the Brahmapuram dumping yard in Kochi. The report, based on a recent drone survey, will be presented ahead of the Kochi Cooperating Municipal Corporation's council meeting on May 15, Mayor V.K. Minimol confirmed.

The NIT-C was reappointed by the United Democratic Front (UDF)-led Corporation council earlier in 2026 after the opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF) challenged the Mayor's January statement claiming 2.50 lakh tonnes of waste remained, arguing that the figure included scientifically capped waste not requiring bio-mining. NIT-C's earlier assessment under the previous LDF administration had identified 1.46 lakh tonnes more legacy waste than the initial 7 lakh tonne estimate.

The Corporation recently granted Bhumi Green Energy an extension to complete bio-mining, claiming it reduced the per-tonne cost by ₹18, saving ₹60 lakh. However, the LDF has accused the council of bypassing tender norms and granting the extension without council approval, vowing protests when the decision comes up for ratification.

Mayor Minimol defended the move, stating April-May is the optimal window for bio-mining ahead of monsoon, and that payment for additional waste processed will be cleared only after council approval via supplementary agenda. The bio-mining project, initially set for 16 months, has already seen a nine-month extension and cost the Corporation ₹118.30 crore to date.

The Kochi corporation council will review the NIT-C report and the extension contract during its meeting on May 15, 2026.