Master plan needed for handling solid waste management: Lt Gov

New Delhi, June 15 (UNI) Lt Governor Tejendra Khanna today said there is need to have a comprehensive master plan for handling solid waste management, within a period of three months, which should identify problem areas and strategies.

Mr Khanna, who launched an initiative to get on board all key agencies at a high-level meeting on Solid Waste Management, said the existing infrastructure will be further strengthened to make Delhi a role model within two years and before the Commonwealth Games 2010.

''Hard decisions are required for solid waste management and whatever is required in this regard shall be done,'' he added.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Mayor Aarti Mehra, senior officers along with representatives of RWAs and NGOs.

The Lt Governor said the size of the total waste for disposal can be reduced many times by segregation from individual household level.

''Example of Defence Colony RWA in solid waste disposal through composting of biodegradable vegetable waste needs to be replicated all over Delhi,'' he observed.

Mr Khanna said unauthorised colonies and slum clusters need to be roped in to widen the reach of the exercise.

Directing the Municipal authorities to contemplate imposition of fine on irresponsible disposal of building rubble on public streets, he suggested that gardeners and sweepers working with municipal authorities should be encouraged to perform their duties in close coordination with local RWAs.

Ms Dikshit emphasised the need to create an Authority having representatives from all civic bodies and developmental agencies for better coordination.

She underlined the need to have zonewise periodical review by the Authority while suggesting that the MCD start a special rubble pick-up service.

Ms Mehra announced setting up of an Advisory Group on Solid Waste Management at MCD having experts and citizens from civil society.

She said a Communication and Control System would also be set up which would also entail a provision of a SMS service for information about unattended garbage dumps.

The Mayor said a biometric system for attendance for field staff will also be considered.

Ms Mehra announced institution of a Mayor's Award for clean colonies/neighbourhoods as an incentive to encourage citizen participation.

UNI