Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Mar 30: Government today informed the Legislative Assembly that most solid waste management sheds across the Union Territory are located away from water bodies and residential areas, while safeguards have been put in place wherever such facilities exist near sensitive locations.
The clarification came in response to a question raised by MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who sought details regarding the siting, functioning and environmental implications of solid waste management infrastructure.
Replying to the query, the Government said waste management sheds are generally established at sites that do not pose risks to habitations or natural water sources.
However, in cases where sheds are located near water bodies or agricultural fields, authorities ensure that waste does not enter streams or cause environmental damage through field-level monitoring and precautionary measures.
The Government acknowledged that solid waste management has emerged as a major challenge across J&K due to the increasing volume of waste generated daily.
It said that while infrastructure for collection, transportation and disposal is in place and most sheds are functional, their optimal performance depends largely on regular door-to-door waste collection.
It further stated that user charges are being collected in some areas to sustain waste management services, but these remain minimal and insufficient to ensure full utilisation and maintenance of infrastructure.
Highlighting steps to address the issue, the government said operation and maintenance systems are being strengthened under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin).
It added that the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) policy for SBM(G)/Solid and Liquid Waste Management assets is in the final stages of formulation to ensure systematic upkeep, functionality and long-term sustainability.
The Finance Department has earmarked 10 percent of the annual PRI capex allocation specifically for the maintenance of SBM(G)/SLWM assets, the Government said, adding, the allocation is aimed at ensuring regular upkeep, uninterrupted services and improved performance at the grassroots level.
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