Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 30 June 2023
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI (M)] has raised objections to the decision made by the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC) to impose a user fee for the collection of garbage and waste from households. In a letter addressed to the Secretary of PBMC, with copies sent to the Administration and Chairman of PBMC, Mr. D. Ayyappan, Secretary of CPI (M) A & N State Organising Committee, highlighted the party’s concerns and urged the council to reconsider their decision.
CPI (M) drew attention to a Public Notice issued by PBMC on 23rd June 2023, announcing the implementation of a user fee for garbage collection in Port Blair town. As per the notice, households and establishments are required to pay a fee for the pickup of garbage and waste from their doorstep. The party noted that a sum of Rs. 50 per month is to be paid for segregated waste, while non-segregated waste attracts a fee of Rs. 1000 per month. This is in addition to the conservancy charge already being paid by individuals residing in the Port Blair Municipal area.
In the letter, CPI (M) Secretary expressed concern over the current situation, where most households are already handing over un-segregated garbage to PBMC staff. Due to the workload, sanitary workers are unable to reach every household, resulting in people depositing garbage at roadside collection points throughout the town. The additional burden of paying Rs. 1000 per month for un-segregated waste is deemed unfair by CPI (M), especially during a period of skyrocketing prices that is already affecting the people.
Ayyappan, on behalf of CPI (M), strongly opposed the decision and called for an immediate withdrawal of the Public Notice by PBMC and the A & N Administration. The party argues that the majority of the people in Port Blair town cannot afford such a substantial monthly fee for garbage collection. CPI (M) further criticized this move as part of a series of measures by the Municipal Council to burden the people, citing the earlier abnormal increase in Property Tax.
CPI (M) requested PBMC to withdraw the Public Notice and continue with the existing system until the matter is discussed with all political parties, aiming to reach a consensus on the issue. The party warned that failure to withdraw the decision would result in an agitation in Port Blair town by CPI (M) without any further notice.