To tackle challenges of increasing solid waste, the Japan International Cooperation Agency will suggest ways of waste management to the Varanasi Municipal Corporation based on the best practices followed in Japan as the per day average of solid waste generation of Varanasi has gone up to 700 metric ton as apart from locals a huge floating population of pilgrims and tourists are also contributing in waste generation.
To discuss solid waste management, waste water treatment and recycling and drinking water distribution system with new revenue generation model, a joint coordination committee meeting of the VMC, UP Jal Nigam and other departments was held with JICA at the divisional commissioner office’s meeting hall on Tuesday.
Assistance of the Japanese agency will suggest best ways for solid waste collection, transportation and processing based on practices followed in Japan. The agency will not only give suggestions on these points but also on technology to incorporate for meeting the requirements of the city.
Currently three plants of 200 mt capacity each are operating at SWM Karsada plant, where organic waste is utilised for fertilizer and coal manufacturing and inorganic waste is being utilised for other purposes.
More efforts are needed to mobilise locals and sanitary workers for segregation of organic and inorganic waste at the points of generation and collection. As G-20 summit events preparations are underway, it is the best time to mobilise people to bring a practical change in solid waste management.
The issue of waste water recycling for the purposes like vehicle washing, toilet flushing and others was also discussed in the meeting. JICA will also suggest a revenue generation model through drinking water supply and distribution. During the meeting JICA’s team leader Sayaco Shitimaru provided details of work of drinking water supply, sewage and SWM completed in phase-I of JICA supported projects. He also gave a presentation on plans for phase-II works, which will be completed by March 2024. The officials also discussed points like cleaning of garbage collection points and garbage carriers.
Officials also chalked out plans for a mega sanitation drive in April by seeking cooperation of social, voluntary and political organisations by keeping a watch on it through the integrated command and control centre.
