Efforts continue to engage more recycling agencies to ensure efficient waste disposal
Vikram Sharma
JAMMU: In rural Jammu & Kashmir, an estimated 884 tonnes of waste is generated daily. This waste primarily consists of wet and dry waste, with wet waste being managed through individual and community compost pits.
Meanwhile, dry waste, especially plastic waste, is either sold to private recycling agencies or collected by local Kabadiwalas for further processing. The government continues its efforts to expand waste management infrastructure by increasing assets and engaging more recycling agencies to ensure efficient waste disposal.
This information was provided by the Minister in charge in response to a question raised by Bashir Ahmad Veeri, who sought details on the total waste generated and its scientific disposal in the Union Territory of J&K.
Addressing a query on the construction of waste segregation sheds and their role in protecting the environment, the minister stated that these sheds, along with Plastic Waste Management Units, play a crucial role in ensuring proper waste separation, collection, and disposal.
Most of these segregation sheds are strategically located in areas away from public places and water bodies to minimize environmental hazards. According to the Compliance Plans (CPs), a minimum distance of 100 to 200 meters is maintained while constructing these sheds to ensure they do not pose a threat to nearby communities. Additionally, strict adherence to the Water Pollution Act of 1974 and the Municipal Solid Waste Rules of 2016 is ensured to prevent contamination of water bodies.
In response to concerns about whether segregation sheds were being built near water bodies and public spaces in violation of environmental regulations, the minister reassured that necessary precautions are taken. It is ensured that water bodies remain uncontaminated and that all segregation sheds comply with the prescribed environmental guidelines.
Further elaborating on waste management measures, the minister stated that regular collection and disposal schedules are in place to prevent waste accumulation. To avoid contamination, waste bins are kept under shelter to prevent rainwater from washing pollutants into water bodies.
Moreover, frequent pickups are arranged to ensure that excessive waste does not accumulate, thereby minimizing the risk of spillage. Since these segregation sheds are designated only for dry waste, daily collection and sorting processes prevent any dumping or unattended waste buildup at these sites.
The minister also clarified that, as per established guidelines, segregation sheds do not involve any treatment processes that discharge pollutants or effluents into the environment. Therefore, specific distance criteria from water bodies do not apply to them.
However, it is mandated that these sheds should not be located in high flood level (HFL) or flood-prone areas. Additionally, they must be at least 200 meters away from any human habitation to prevent health and environmental risks.
Through these ongoing initiatives, the government aims to enhance waste management systems, ensuring cleaner surroundings and better environmental protection for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
