Temporary arrangements for transportation of debris and garbage in yet-to-be-privatised zones are likely to be in place this week.
The Chennai Corporation Council is likely to permit a private player to cart garbage and debris in 12 zones using tipper lorries for a period of one year. The temporary arrangement has been proposed to cope with the challenge of inadequate garbage clearance in the newly added zones – Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, Ambattur, Valasaravakkam, Alandur, Perungudi and Sholinganallur.
The private player’s services will be used to clear garbage during emergencies or during festivals when there is a pressing need for swift action. The civic body has been using the services of private contractors on account of the shortage of conservancy workers and vehicles in the 12 zones. However, the differing rates charged by such private contractors have been a source of concern to the Corporation. The proposed temporary arrangement involves the transfer of debris or garbage from streets to transfer stations on a tonnage basis.
The proposed hire charge per tonne is different for debris removal and garbage removal. The charges include the labour charges for removal of the debris or garbage from the streets and transfer stations.
Two months ago, the Chennai Corporation Council approved the proposal for gradual privatisation of conservancy operations in all zones. The Corporation had sought privatisation as part of its efforts to shortlist suitable technology for remediation and scientific closure of the Perungudi and Kodungaiyur dump yards. Currently, conservancy operations in zones such as Teynampet, Kodambakkam, Adyar and parts of Ambattur are being carried out under Public Private Partnership mode.
The proposed temporary arrangement is likely to be in place till the entire conservancy operations are privatised in all the zones.
The civic body is also getting ready to tackle the crisis in the wake of the third show-cause notice to Ramky Enviro Engineers on Saturday. The civic body had asked for explanations for deficiencies it listed out in individual wards. The company carries out conservancy operations in Adyar, Teynampet and Kodambakkam zones.
