Coloured bins for waste segregation have reached many doorsteps in the city, but it remains to be seen if they can help GHMC meet its waste management objectives.
According to sources, the city produces in excess of 4,000 metric tonnes a day but just that much reaches Jawaharnagar facility. An estimated 350-400 tonnes of waste, largely recyclables, are knocked off at various points in collection and dumping cycle. Less than 0.1 percent of the waste that reaches the dumping yard is recyclable.
“Very little waste that reaches Jawaharnagar is recyclable. It indicates losses along the way and more importantly, rampant use of non-biodegradable materials in the city,” an official said.
The objective of waste segregation at source across the world is to improve recycling. GHMC announced its revamped waste management plan last year but took up distribution of coloured bins in the wake of coming elections in February.
As part of its plan, around 2,000 garbage carrying tippers that can carry segregated wastes will begin operation in the city after the bin distribution exercise is completed.
Tippers will transfer garbage to transfer stations where wastes will be collected in two piles. Segregated wastes will then be transported to Jawarharnagar. These tippers have to be purchased by drivers who wish to operate them by contributing 20 percent of the cost. The GHMC will facilitate loan procurement, subsidy and has also agreed to contribute to the EMI. Officials claim around 2,400 applications have been received.
The waste pilferage notwithstanding, the corporation’s move in Hyderabad may still hold relevance as it advocates segregation of wet organic waste that can be composted. Officials hope that a provision in the new plan to encourage tipper operators to sell recyclables and involve residential welfare associations will help restrict pilferage.
Also part of the plan is to build 25 modern stations in the city. An official informed that the engineering wing is yet to come up with a design. It could take a few months before these stations are conceived and approved for construction, the official informed.
