The business hub of North Karnataka, Hubli-Dharwad, is the second-largest conurbation in Karnataka after Bangalore. Over 400 tonnes of waste is generated by the twin cities on a daily basis. In order to keep the cities clean, Hubli Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is planning to implement integrated solid waste management (ISWM) shortly. Municipal Commissioner Y S Patil shares his views.
How does the Corporation manage collection, transportation and disposal of waste?
HDMC has submitted a proposal to the government on ISWM – which has three components – primary, secondary and tertiary. These are door – to – door collection, transportation and disposal of waste. The proposal is in the final stages of approval by the cabinet committee formed by the state government. Once the proposal is approved, scientific disposal of the waste will be implemented through bio-methanization or waste to energy conversion technologies and methods. Tenders will be floated accordingly for expression of interest, in a couple of month’s time as per ISWM.
Out of 67 wards, more than 50% of the households have already been covered through door – to – door collection. Some wards are also assigned to Poura Karmikas (Sweepers).
What are the various Solid Waste Management Programmes adopted by the Corporation?
HDMC has passed a bye-law of banning plastic carry bags of less than 40 microns. If the offence is committed for the first time, the offending shopkeeper will bear a fine of `1000 and it is `2000 for the second time. Trade licence of the shop will be cancelled and the shop will be subsequently sealed, if it is committed for the third time.
With regards to the bio-degradable waste, HDMC is planning to build a plant. The Corporation has also taken steps to reduce plastic waste. Plastic waste of less than 40 microns will be collected at one particular point and will be disposed of scientifically. It will be converted into pellets, which will be used as tar in the construction of roads.
How is the various industrial waste disposed of?
Industrial waste and Biomedical waste is handled by the Industries and Indian Medical Association in coordination with the District Administration & Karnataka State Pollution Control Board respectively whereas Bio-degradable waste will be handled once ISWM is implemented.
Have you taken up mechanized cleaning of roads and other areas?
We have already floated tenders for sweeper machines for cleaning the big roads. The machines will be supplied shortly for cleaning the major roads.
What are the eco-friendly initiatives adopted?
The project estimated at a cost of around `160 Crore is underway for the underground drainage network. A Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) is being built for 40MLD of sewerage, which will get completed in the coming six to seven months. Over the past two to three years, HDMC has planted trees in coordination with the forest department and NGOs.
