PBMC Launches Initiative for Effective Waste Segregation at Household Level

Tarun Karthick

Port Blair, 12 July 2024

A critical meeting chaired by Mr. Amit Kale, IAS, Secretary of the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC), was held to strategise on the effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) rule. The session, attended by sanitation and solid waste management officials, concluded with a series of decisive actions aimed at improving waste segregation at the source.

In a bid to enhance waste management efficiency, PBMC will soon distribute informational pamphlets to households, detailing the categorisation of waste into wet, dry, and household hazardous waste. This initiative is designed to educate residents on proper waste segregation practices and ensure compliance with SWM rules.

The initial phase will target wards where current segregation practices are either inadequate or non-compliant. Sanitary Inspectors from the Council will distribute the pamphlets, placing them in prominent areas such as front doors or kitchens, with household consent, to ensure visibility for all family members. This approach aims to foster a sense of responsibility among residents and streamline the segregation process.

Beyond pamphlet distribution, PBMC is ramping up awareness programs through its Safai Mitras, Supervisors, and the Swacchtha Awareness Team. These efforts are geared towards educating the public on the importance of waste segregation and the benefits it brings to the community and the environment.

A significant aspect of this initiative is the enforcement policy starting from July 25, 2024. From this date onwards, waste collection will only be carried out if the waste is properly segregated at the source. Households failing to comply with segregation rules will face penalties. This strict measure underscores PBMC’s commitment to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.

Residents are encouraged to actively participate in this initiative, as proper waste segregation not only aids in recycling efforts but also reduces landfill usage and promotes a healthier ecosystem. For additional information or queries, residents can contact their respective Ward’s Sanitary Inspector.

PBMC urges the community to collaborate in keeping Port Blair clean and green, fostering a culture of sustainable living for the benefit of all.