Working with the informal sector, and several middle men, waste theft was a conistent problem faced. Sandeep Patel knew that the solution to waste theft was a digital app. The “Eureka” moment for NEPRA and technology came when Reliance launched their Android tablet for INR 13,000 in 2013. It was easier to work on the app solution since post the launch of the tablet, every stakeholder in the chain could have easy access to it. Prior to the app, they used Java solution that involved sending text messages containing information on the waste collected. This system was inefficient since the messages would take time to get delivered. NEPRA's app solved the challenge of unorganised sector, maintained end to end service data and ensured transparency.
Source: Circular Insights- Conversations with Business Leaders in India- 5th June, 2021