Expressing concern over the use of polythene bags harming the environment, Secretary (Housing and Environment) Sanjay Shukla said that urban bodies and Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board (CECB) will have to join hands to generate awareness with strict enforcement of solid waste management measures.
Speaking as a chief guest of a workshop on ‘Urban Solid Waste Management’ organised by CECB, Shukla said that the problem of urban sanitation cannot be resolved without participation of the public. “It is the responsibility of all of us to keep the environment clean. Every citizen should remain cautious of the sanitation system and help the agencies to maintain cleanliness,” said Shukla.
He said that people’s participation is a must in management of waste generated in cities. Comprehensive rules have been framed for the purpose and their effective implementation will help in proper management of solid waste.
Director (Urban Administration Department) Dr Rohit Yadav, in his presidential address said that Urban Solid Waste Management Act was enforced 14 years ago and even the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought an action plan in this regard.
“The urban solid waste management has become essential and is an important issue. This workshop has been organised with an objective to understand the solid waste management rules and procedures,” said Yadav, adding, that urban bodies should take up the issue on a priority basis and take action according to a proper work plan.
Member Secretary, CECB, Devendra Singh informed the participants that the workshop has been organised in view of World Environment Day on June 5. Awareness programmes will be organised for a week on the occasion.
Prof. Samir Bajpai of Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Raipur, Dr Anita Sawant of CECB and Omendra Srivastava gave a presentation during the workshop.
More than 250 representatives from different municipal bodies participated in the workshop and were apprised of rules and activities of urban solid waste management.