Design and Implementation of Smart Waste Management Systems in Developing Countries: A Case Study of Lahore

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and population growth in developing countries increase municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, straining existing collection, segregation, and disposal systems. This paper investigates the design and implementation of a smart waste management (SWM) system tailored to the socioeconomic and infrastructural context of Lahore, Pakistan. Using mixed methods—field surveys, stakeholder interviews, GIS mapping, and sensor-enabled pilot testing—this study evaluates system components including IoT-enabled bins, route optimization, real-time monitoring dashboards, and community engagement platforms. Results show that integrating low-cost ultrasonic fill-level sensors, cellular reporting, and adaptive collection routing reduces collection frequency by 28%, fuel consumption by 22%, and overflow incidents by 63% in pilot zones. The paper discusses technical architecture, cost-benefit considerations, governance models, and scalability challenges, concluding with policy recommendations for phased city-wide adoption in similar developing-country contexts.