Govt steps in to overhaul waste management in coastal areas

CM SAYS 70% OF COASTAL P’YATS FAILED TO MANAGE WASTE; PROPOSES MANDATORY HOUSE TAX, GARBAGE TAX COLLECTION

Expressing serious concerns over inadequate waste management in coastal areas, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced on Thursday that nearly 70 per cent of coastal panchayats have failed to effectively manage waste.

Sawant said that only 30 per cent of the coastal panchayat bodies have effective waste disposal, treatment and management system in place. "This is a serious issue. The local bodies have got enough funds under 15th Finance Commission and under Swachh Bharat Mission. However, there is a lack of utilisation," he said.

Sawant stated that the State government would take direct oversight of waste disposal and treatment activities in these panchayats moving forward.

He highlighted the need for a more structured approach to address waste management issues, suggesting that each panchayat should appoint dedicated contractors to streamline waste handling.