Comprehensive Multi-Criteria Evaluation for Landfill Site Selection in Faisalabad, Pakistan

Junaid Talat; Syed Ali Asad Naqvi; Mudsar Shahzad; Shoaib  Khalid; Ayesha Riaz; Muhammad Irfan Gill; Ume Salma

Authors

Junaid Talat Department of Geography, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
Syed Ali Asad Naqvi Department of Geography, Government College University Faisalabad
Mudsar Shahzad Department of Geography, Government Graduate College of Science Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
Shoaib Khalid Department of Geography, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
Ayesha Riaz Institute of Geography, University of the Punjab Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
Muhammad Irfan Gill Department of Geography, Government Graduate College Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan.
Ume Salma Department of Earth Sciences, University of Sargodha, Pakistan

Keywords:

Landfill Site Selection, Analytical Hierarchy Process, Geographical Information System, Solid Waste Management, Multi Criteria Decision Analysis

Abstract

Introduction/Importance of Study: Solid waste management (SWM) has become a critical issue in urban planning due to population growth and urban migration, particularly in developing countries. In Pakistan, there are no standardized regulations for landfill site selection. Faisalabad, often referred to as the "Manchester of Pakistan" due to its industrial base and growing population, faces significant challenges in this regard. Identifying a suitable landfill site is essential to minimize health and environmental risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of both urban and peri-urban areas.

Novelty Statement: This study aims to propose an optimized landfill site in Faisalabad, combining the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to guide sustainable solid waste management practices.

Material and Method: The study utilized raster, vector, and attribute data based on eight key criteria: proximity to settlements, groundwater depth, roads, airport, surface water, power stations, railway infrastructure, and population density. Using AHP within the MCDA framework and GIS modeling with weighted overlay operations, we identified potential landfill sites for Faisalabad. Population data was incorporated to validate site suitability.

Results and Discussion: Through geospatial analysis, we identified and prioritized three potential landfill sites. After a population analysis, we recommended Site-1, covering 147 acres, as the most sustainable option for the next 50 years. This site offers a balance between accessibility and environmental safety.

Concluding Remarks: The integration of AHP and GIS under MCDA proved to be an effective method for landfill site selection. These tools can significantly aid decision-makers in achieving environmentally sustainable outcomes. Future research incorporating real-time data and community feedback could enhance site selection and decision-making processes.

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