MRF Mokokchung leads in civic-driven recycling

Material Recovery Facility (MRF) under the Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC) has steadily evolved into a central pillar in the district’s waste management system, embodying both technological progress and strong civic participation.
According to Arenla Tzudir, since its establishment, the facility has played a critical role in sorting, processing, and preparing recyclable waste– setting a high benchmark for other urban local bodies in Nagaland.
Constructed in March 2020, the MRF was soon equipped with a bailing machine under the Swachh Bharat Mission, installed by April 2020.
In January 2023, a shredding machine was received from the Directorate of Municipal Affairs, and installed in April the same year.
Most recently, the addition of a digital weighing machine in August 2024 has further strengthened its operational capacity, enabling more precise monitoring and management of recyclable waste.
Arenla said that a key figure in this journey has been Sanitation Inspector, Kilepchiba, who was the first to be trained in operating and managing the facility’s equipment. His tireless dedication, practical knowledge, and day-to-day involvement have been instrumental in ensuring the smooth functioning of the facility, she said.
Under his mentorship, three additional staff members have been trained, creating a competent team that manages the facility’s operations with efficiency and consistency.
Despite being powered by machinery, MRF thrives on community involvement. The success of the facility is closely linked to public cooperation, particularly in waste segregation at the household level. In this regard, seven wards– Salangtem, Alempang, Lichaba Lichen, Aongza, Kumlong, and Yimyu– have emerged as leaders by actively promoting and practicing source-level segregation, proving that local action can drive systemic change.
Educational institutions in Mokokchung have also become crucial stakeholders. Schools and colleges have integrated waste segregation into their environmental education, regularly submitting sorted waste to the MRF. This collaboration not only helps maintain the flow of recyclable materials to the facility but also fosters environmental consciousness among the youth.
In the lead-up to World Environment Day 2025, Mokokchung launched the “Trade Waste for Green” campaign as part of the global theme “Ending Plastic Pollution Globally” and the local slogan “Let’s Beat Plastic Pollution for a Greener Mokokchung.”
The campaign encouraged residents to exchange segregated plastic waste for native tree saplings, receiving an enthusiastic public response. A total of 1,983.9 kilograms of plastic waste was collected during the drive, reinforcing the community’s commitment to sustainable living.
Through sustained investment in infrastructure, committed manpower, and active community participation, MRF has emerged as a model of effective Swachh Bharat Mission implementation– showcasing how responsive local governance and grassroots involvement can together drive impactful and lasting environmental transformation.