The kiosk-model of waste collection looks the way forward for the city Corporation. It has decided to set up nine such kiosks in different parts of the city before the end of this month. The popularity of the first Nirmal waste collection kiosk which was opened at Kailas Nagar in Karamana just ten days back has prompted the civic body to replicate it in various parts.
The new kiosks are being planned in areas near Fort, Secretariat, Vazhuthacaud, Manacaud, Sreekanteswaram, Chenthitta and Karamana. Secretariat and Karamana areas will have two each. Ever since the first one was opened, residents’ associations and even individuals have been calling up the Corporation to enquire whether a kiosk can be set up near their areas.
“We have received calls from every corner of the city with requests to open kiosks. A few others asked whether they can bring garbage to the Karamana kiosk. On an average, we have been getting around 60 kilograms of waste at the kiosk. The quantity is increasing by the day. But we are not calling it a success yet as it can be decided only after a considerable period of time, especially during the monsoon when the nature and amount of waste changes,” says S. Pushpalatha, Chairperson of the Corporation’s Health Standing Committee.
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The civic body, though, is not currently looking to replicate it in every street corner. A maximum of 15 kiosks is the threshold that it has set for itself now.
“There is no point in opening kiosks everywhere. As of now, we have identified a few areas where there are large garbage heaps. It is best to concentrate on these areas for a start,” she says.
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The Corporation is also waiting for takers for the manure produced from the treated waste from the kiosks. “We are yet to market it in a big way. Once all the kiosks are launched, we will do that. We will transport it for free within a 25-kilometre radius of the city. This will be useful to many farmers,” says Ms. Pushpalatha.