MCC tries its hand at compost making

The civic body has already started preparing the soil conditioner in 25 different places in the city.

MCC Commissioner K S Raykar, the brains behind the project, explained the process involved in making compost: Dry leaves are stuffed on beds (elevated platform made of wood supported by stone pillars) and soaked in cow dung and water. The mixture is allowed to decompose for 60 days, which then and turns into compost rich in nitrogen and phosphates to boost the growth of plants and trees.

To prevent stray animals from feeding on leaves, the bed is covered with a thick piece of cloth. The covering also has another benefit — the heat generated under it helps in faster decomposition of leaves, making the rotting organic materials potent compost.

The aim of the initiative is to show people how to make their own compost for use in their backyards without huge investments, Raykar said.

The MCC plans to use the compost for its parks and gardens. The civic agency consulted experts in the field before starting the project, he said.

Environmental engineers and health workers, mainly inspectors, have been entrusted with the task of maintaining compost beds, with fixed targets, said another officer.

The MCC has begun the project on an experimental basis at Cheluvamba Park, Town Hall, Gururaj Layout, Siddartha Layout, Alanahalli and Ittigegud.