Chikkamagaluru DC directs officials to improve solid waste management

Chikkamagaluru: Deputy commissioner Bhanwar Singh Meena instructed officials concerned to work towards making the district a model in solid waste management. He instructed the officials during the District Level Monitoring Committee meeting for the effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 on Monday.

He said if solid waste generated daily in homes and public places is not managed properly, it turns into legacy waste and harms the environment.

He he IAS officer added that a comprehensive monitoring technology and mapping system should be developed to transport the segregated waste separately to processing units and dispose of it scientifically.

He noted that waste is already being managed through Swachhata Vahinis in many gram panchayats, and those handling waste disposal should be given proper training on solid waste management rules. “All bulk waste generators should be registered online. There should be information on how much waste they collect and process, and how much is pending. Scientific waste segregation should be prioritised in places where more waste is generated,” he said.

To reduce the use of environmentally harmful materials, industries producing alternative green products should be encouraged. Eco-friendly products should be made easily available in the market, he said, adding that public awareness should be created on this, especially among school students, the DC pointed out.

He instructed the KSPCB to extend proper cooperation to local body officials to function as per solid waste management rules. The KSPCB should provide necessary training to local bodies on effective implementation of Solid Waste Management Rules 2026.

Temples and religious institutions under the Religious Endowment Department should take appropriate steps to dispose of solid waste in their surroundings. Also, the tourism department should take suitable steps for solid waste disposal at tourist and scenic spots in the district, he said.

ZP deputy secretary Gaurav Kumar Shetty, KSPCB environment officer Raju were present.