Visits Plastic Waste Management Unit at Kakapora

SRINAGAR: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary on Wednesday Pulwama to assess the progress of door-to-door waste collection, Plastic Waste Management Units (PWMUs), and other assets established under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G) in the district.
He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, Director General, Rural Sanitation, J&K, Anoo Malhotra and other field officers of the district.
Dr Shahid emphasized the importance of efficient waste management systems in rural areas and underscored the significance of proper waste disposal mechanisms in preserving environmental health and hygiene.
Secretary RDD interacted with local officials and stakeholders to gauge the challenges and requirements in sustaining the ongoing waste management initiatives.
Dr Shahid emphasized the importance of investing in the capacity building and training of field functionaries involved in sanitation efforts.
Secretary RDD stressed the need to provide exposure and ownership to these functionaries, underscoring their pivotal role in the success of sanitation initiatives.
He discussed the status and challenges of plastic waste management in the region, mentioning that around 116 PWMUs are physically complete and 23 are under construction in J&K.
Dr Shahid asked officials not to start new units until the current ones are fully operational, emphasizing quality over quantity.
He pointed out the gaps in functionality and the need for proper planning and machinery to ensure the units serve their purpose effectively.
Secretary RDD underscored the significance of community involvement in sanitation initiatives, particularly through the establishment of village level sanitation committees. He encouraged officials to focus on capacity building at the grassroots level, empowering communities to take ownership of sanitation efforts.
Dr Shahid stressed the importance of a structured approach, urging officers to develop a comprehensive plan from start to finish.
Secretary RDD also discussed the need for coordination between urban and rural agencies in waste management efforts.
He emphasized the importance of a systematic approach, stressing the need for institution-specific plans that transcend individual roles.
Dr. Shahid urged officials to set measurable targets and develop comprehensive plans to achieve them, emphasizing the importance of accountability and tangible outcomes.
In addition to discussing plastic waste management, Dr Shahid addressed the need for innovative solutions in sanitation infrastructure, particularly community sanitary complexes.

KR Desk