By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) is aiming for a three-star ranking in this year’s Swachhata Survey. To achieve this goal, it has developed a comprehensive roadmap, with work already underway in a systematic manner. The Corporation has identified three key areas to improve its score: door-to-door garbage collection, segregation of wet and dry waste, and the efficient handling of complaints.
Last year, PMC introduced a system of collecting waste directly from homes, eliminating the need for communal garbage points. To further strengthen door-to-door garbage collection, 375 new e-carts have been purchased, providing five additional vehicles for each ward. This ensures that waste collection will not be disrupted due to vehicle breakdowns, as reserve vehicles will be deployed to affected areas, allowing for continuous service. The Corporation aims to secure maximum marks in this category by fully regularising the door-to-door collection system.
Waste segregation is another critical area in the Swachhata Survey, as it significantly eases the disposal process. Wet waste can be composted, while dry waste materials like plastic, metal, and tiles can be separately processed. Achieving a three-star rank requires 70% segregation at the source of waste generation.
To meet this target, 500 mobilisers have been appointed to accompany garbage collection vehicles and encourage residents to separate wet and dry waste. They will also request that medical waste and sharp objects be separated. In addition, drivers and collectors are receiving special training. From October 2, a fine of Rs 500 will be imposed on those who do not comply with waste segregation.
The Municipal Corporation has also enhanced its system for registering complaints related to waste collection and cleanliness issues, as this contributes to the overall score in the survey. Alongside a dedicated mobile number, a WhatsApp chatbot is now available for this purpose, with a focus on prompt resolution of reported issues.
