Three days into the indefinite strike by Kozhikode Corporation Kudumbasree workers who are engaged in door-to-door collection of domestic waste, discreet dumping of garbage in vacant nooks and corners has begun in many parts of the city. Residents are worried about a possible outbreak of epidemics as fever cases are already on the rise in the district.
P. Jayachandran, president, West Karaparamba Residents’ Association, said on Sunday that the strike had affected residents who were yet to start source-based handling of domestic waste. “Though large-scale dumping of waste in public places is yet to begin, in some places, people are seen throwing it in vacant slots. The local councillor in our ward has called a meeting with apartment owners and residents’ association representatives,” he added.
Mr. Jayachandran pointed out that the mounds of garbage were yet to develop into a major health problem as the monsoon had weakened in the last couple of days. “If rain starts again, it is likely to lead to serious health issues,” he observed.
Subhash Kalliyedath, joint secretary of People’s Residents’ Association, Bilathikulam, said that dumping of waste had been noticed at Bilathikulam Junction, People’s Road, and East Hill Road. “It is a trial-and-error method. Some people dump waste at vacant slots. If it is not removed in a day or two, they will again throw garbage there. Soon, the places will become unofficial dumping yards for others too,” he added. Mr. Subhash blamed the city corporation for its lethargic attitude towards Kudumbasree workers. “The civic body should address their grievances and take steps to amicably settle the strike,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, alternative arrangements to collect solid waste are yet to take off completely in several places. Mr. Jayachandran said the people were still clueless about them. The corporation authorities are expected to hold another meeting with the representatives of the Kozhikode Jilla Kharamalinya Thozhilali Union on Monday to broker a truce.
