Subsidy to set up source-based waste management systems was extended only to individual households, but now institutions in the city, such as hotels, schools, hospitals, wedding halls, meat stalls, government quarters, and offices would also be offered 50 per cent subsidy, subject to a maximum of Rs. 1 lakh.
The city Corporation had earlier alerted institutions to set up their own source-based waste management system following the closure of the Vilappilsala waste treatment plant. Waste is generated in bulk quantities here, often finding its way to public areas and waysides. As part of the ward-level waste management conventions that begin on Sunday, authorities hope that more institutions would avail themselves of this offer and make a significant difference in bringing down garbage accumulation in the city.
The first ward to hold the convention is Chettivilakom. It will begin at 10 a.m. at the Concordia Lutheren Higher Secondary School, Kudapanakunnu. To be held in all 100 wards, these conventions would spread awareness and serve as a one-stop shop for residents in the city to examine the various options, speak to the service provider concerned directly, and complete all the necessary paperwork in order to benefit from the subsidies.
A criticism often levelled against source-based systems is that there are residential areas in the city such as Fort where there is virtually no compound to set up even a pipe compost. So, during these conventions, tracts of land owned by the government or the Corporation would be identified and the civic body would grant the funds to set up a public facility in each ward to process waste.
Moreover, pipe composts were deemed a failure also because residents were irked by the stench and presence of worms that it presented. This resulted primarily because they were not maintained properly. In an attempt to revive a previous programme, the Corporation would employ trained Kudumbasree workers to visit homes where source-based systems have been set up regularly to ensure that no such malfunctions crop up again. In addition, they would also collect cleaned plastic waste from homes. This will be done at a fee of Rs.50 a month.
The beneficiary cost for a pipe compost system is Rs.90. It will be installed the same day as payment of the fee. The convention will also invite applications for ring composts and biogas plants. The respective ward committee would convene after the programme to prepare a list of beneficiaries. Once approved, the chosen service provider will take care of installation.
