Solid Waste Management Meeting Held in Namchi.
Namchi, April 20 (IPR): A District Level Committee meeting on Solid Waste Management was held today at the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Namchi.
The meeting was presided over by DC Namchi, Ms Anupa Tamling. She addressed the committee on the importance of effective waste segregation, collection, and disposal across the district.
During the discussion, it was highlighted that nearly 80 to 90 percent of waste segregation is being successfully carried out in rural areas. It was also informed that compost bins have been provided to households to encourage proper waste management practices and promote sustainable disposal methods.
It was observed that in urban areas, many residents are not segregating their waste and are instead mixing it before handing it over for collection. In response, a plan has been formulated to identify a pilot ward for hands-on training in waste segregation practices.
Additionally, an awareness programmes will be conducted in urban areas for a duration of one month, focusing on proper waste segregation and management. Following the completion of this period, the progress will be reviewed and assessed.
The DC emphasised the importance of segregation at source and suggested the introduction of a two compartment system in waste collection vehicles for separate collection of dry and wet waste. She also directed that pamphlets be distributed door-to-door to spread awareness among residents regarding proper waste management practices.
The issue of establishing a Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) in Namchi was also discussed. The project has faced resistance from local residents due to concerns that it may contaminate nearby water sources. In response, a plan has been proposed to first conduct a joint inspection to verify whether the water sources in the area are being safeguarded. Secondly, awareness programmes will be organised to educate the public about the benefits of the RRC, including its role in reducing plastic waste, composting organic materials, and preventing the harmful practice of waste burning.
During the meeting, it was discussed that a joint cleanliness drive will be conducted from Damthang Road to Temi Zero. She also highlighted the need for cleaning the cremation areas near Samdruptse Road and Alley Gumpa, as plastic waste from food items is being dumped in these locations after use.
Also she stressed the need to check the functionality of sanitary vending machines and incinerators in all schools. She directed that incinerators should be installed in every workplace to ensure proper hygiene and effective waste management.
She directed the Education Department to ensure that a speech on the topic of waste management is delivered during the morning assembly in schools for the purpose of raising awareness about waste management among students.
Further, she stated that strict action will be taken against illegal dumping of waste in both rural and urban areas and any violations if found will result in fines. It was also mentioned that green, blue, and red dustbins will be distributed to households in both rural and urban areas of the district for the purpose of promoting proper waste segregation and effective waste management.
Also present during were ADC Namchi Ms Tirsang Tamang, SDM (HQ) Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia, ADC (Dev) Dr C P Rai, CMO Namchi Dr Junita Yonzon, CEO Mr G P Sharma, MEO Mr Yogen Syangden, ACF Mr Akash Das Rai, AO Mr Popo Tshering Bhutia, AE Ms Gaki Bhutia, DPO Ms Karzang D. Lassopa.
Report From DIO Namchi