Aafrin Kidwai 
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC)’s recent online solution for public feedback regarding waste collection by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is resulting in tough action. The contracts of six NGOs have been already terminated on the basis of public feedback as per Mr Ghanshyam Dass, GMC Commissioner.
“The software has been developed by the IT cell of GMC on the official website of the corporation. Residents can lodge a complaint or give feedback regarding waste collection,” Mr Dass informed The Times of India. “A total of 90 NGOs have been given contracts to cover 31 wards in the city five days a week. We will take action against the NGOs if any complaints are received,” he said. The GMC has also decided to increase the fine for throwing waste/ garbage on the road to Rs 5,000.
Guwahati produces 450 tons of garbage per day, which is dumped at the Boragaon dumpsite. Last year, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had ordered the GMC to shift the dumpsite to a different location as it poses a threat to the ecologically sensitive Deepor beel, a permanent freshwater lake. Integrated solid waste management projects were announced at four different locations in and around the city instead of shifting the dumping ground. The state government had allocated Rs 10 crore for the project.
Picture Credit: Mozzworld at en.wikipedia, Sarania-hills-brahmaputra, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons
