Swamp reclamation in tropical monsoon regions by appropriate refuse landfilling

Summary This paper is based on a research study to evaluate the feasibility of reclaiming low-lying swamplands by filling them with refuse, rather than with dirt, sand or other inert materials. A supplementary study was also initiated to prepare a preliminary evaluation of disposing of solid waste from the Bangkok Metropolis region. This included a preliminary assessment of available filling areas and of costs for filling them, together with projected values of reclaimed land. The latter study was included to determine if a feasibility study for utilising refuse landfilling for Bangkok solid-waste disposal is warranted, and to prepare the feasibility study terms of reference if so justified. Results of the literature review, practices of refuse landfilling in swamps, and methods and materials employed in conduct of the study are described. This is followed by evaluations of the feasibility of disposing solid wastes utilising swamplands, an environmental analysis of the same, and the conclusions of the study.The authors are Consulting Engineers at Seatec International, Bangkok. The views in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect World Bank policies.