Bio-medical waste (BMW) poses significant risks if not properly managed. The geographical context of healthcare facilities can significantly influence the quantity and management of BMW. In Karnataka, the Mysore district, with its varied topography and demographic distribution, presents a unique challenge for effective BMW management. Biomedical waste management in India has been critically appraised in various studies, highlighting the gap between policy and practice.

Datta, Mohi, and Chander (2018)1 provided a comprehensive review of the challenges in implementing effective biomedical waste management practices across the country. They emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of regulations and better infrastructure to manage the increasing volume of biomedical waste. Similarly, Kumar, Abinaya, Venkatesan, and Natrajan (2019)2 discussed the practical challenges faced in the disposal of biomedical waste in India, highlighting how existing policies often remain on paper without substantial implementation on the ground. Pasupathi, Sindhu, Ponnusha, and Ambika (2011)3 explored the management of biomedical waste in healthcare settings, stressing the importance of proper segregation and disposal to prevent environmental contamination and health hazards. Bhalla, Bandyopadhyay, and Saha (2019) 4 further underscored the need to keep pace with the new Biomedical Waste Management Rules, noting that healthcare facilities must be vigilant and updated on regulatory changes to ensure compliance and safety. Biomedical waste management remains a significant global concern, as emphasized by Mohammed Noor Shaida and Sandeep Singla 20195 in their study, where they outline the various challenges and practices related to managing biomedical waste. The complexity of addressing these challenges is further highlighted by N.K. Sharma and Dr. Lata Sharma 6, who provide an overview of different technologies available for biomedical waste management. They stress the need for adopting advanced and effective waste management strategies to mitigate the health and environmental risks posed by improper disposal.

This paper aims to assess the generation of bio-medical waste across different taluks within the Mysore district, with a focus on how geographical factors such as location, accessibility, and population density impact waste generation and management practices.

The study area focuses on five taluks within Mysore District, Karnataka: K.R. Nagar, Hunsur, H.D. Kote, Nanjangud, and Periyapatna. These taluks exhibit diverse geographical characteristics, which influence both the distribution of healthcare facilities and the management of biomedical waste.

The geographical coordinates and diverse topography of these taluks highlight the challenges and variability in managing biomedical waste across different regions. This study examines the spatial distribution of waste generation within these taluks, considering both environmental and public health implications.

Data was collected from healthcare establishments in the Mysore district, particularly in the taluks of K.R. Nagar, Hunsur, H.D. Kote, Nanjangud, and Periyapatna. The data includes the number of beds and the average monthly bio-medical waste generated, recorded in kilograms, for the year 2019.

A geographical analysis was conducted by mapping these facilities and overlaying the data with geographical features such as population density, proximity to urban centers, and road networks. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools were used to visualize and analyze spatial patterns in BMW generation.

The geographical analysis of bio-medical waste generation in Mysore district reveals significant spatial disparities in waste production and management challenges. Urban centers with better access to healthcare facilities generate more waste, while rural areas, despite generating less waste, face greater challenges in managing it due to logistical constraints.

The findings emphasize the need for geographically tailored waste management strategies. Urban areas require robust infrastructure to handle high volumes of waste, while rural areas need improved transportation and disposal systems to ensure safe waste management. Future research could explore the integration of GIS-based monitoring systems to enhance BMW management across different geographical contexts.