While most people see the daily waste from kitchens, homes, offices, schools, and factories as a growing problem, three young brothers in Palpa have turned it into a promising business opportunity.
In Padmetari, Tansen Municipality-6, brothers Sushil, Umesh, and Tarzan Bhandari have spent the last five years transforming garbage into income. Operating under the name “Nepalese Waste Bank” in Lamidanda, Tansen-7, the trio’s venture collects, sorts, and processes recyclable materials—from paper and cardboard to metal scraps, glass, and plastic bottles.
As the growing volume of waste from Tansen’s market began to threaten the town’s cleanliness, the brothers took the initiative to tackle the problem head-on. They officially registered their enterprise, created jobs for local youth, and began their mission to keep Tansen clean and sustainable.
The brothers are all academically accomplished. Sushil is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree after completing a diploma in mechanics. Umesh, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree, is now studying for a Masters of Arts in Economics. Tarzan has already completed a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). Unlike many of their peers, they have no immediate plans to go abroad or seek government jobs. Instead, they are united by a shared vision: to transform Tansen into a waste-free city.
The collected waste is meticulously sorted and sent to recycling companies in major cities such as Bhairahawa, Kathmandu, and Birgunj. Some materials are recycled locally by the brothers themselves.
According to Umesh, the business now earns between Rs 3 to 5 million annually. They have also created employment for six people—three Nepali and three Indian nationals.
Their journey, however, was not without challenges. In the early days, the brothers faced ridicule and doubt. “People laughed at us for collecting waste,” Umesh recalled. “The local government didn’t support us, and even our community misunderstood us. Some mocked us as scavengers who pick through trash.”
At first, they had to go door-to-door to find customers. Today, recyclers seek them out. Their operation now handles more than two tonnes of scrap every day, all sorted and processed in coordination with recycling firms.
What began as an unconventional and daring initiative has now earned them respect and recognition.
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