Agriculture Secretary reviews sanitation, infrastructure at Sector 26 vegetable market

The UT Engineering Department has been told to design a holistic and effective drainage system for better wastewater management in the fruit and vegetable mandi in Sector 26.

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The directions were issued by UT Agriculture Secretary Hari Kallikkat to Chief Engineer CB Ojha during a surprise visit to the mandi to take stock of the challenges being faced by shopkeepers and visitors to the area. The Agriculture Secretary was accompanied by State Agricultural Marketing Board Secretary, the Market Committee Administrator and the Chief Engineer.

The officers undertook a round of the mandi, closely inspecting the ground realities related to various civic and infrastructural issues. Sanitation emerged as a key concern and was discussed in detail. Other pressing matters, such as road repairs and the functioning of sewerage system, were also reviewed in consultation with the Chief Engineer.

During the visit, the officers met representatives of the Grain Market Association. They emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between the Administration and the association to bring about noticeable improvements in the mandi.

The Market Committee Administrator said the mandi generates a large volume of waste, with approximately 20 to 25 tonnes of garbage being lifted daily. Cooperation from shopkeepers and vendors is essential to effectively address the garbage problem. The Market Committee has procured 120-litre dustbins, which will be installed across the mandi in the coming week. Additionally, flex boards have been installed at various locations to raise awareness about cleanliness and responsible waste disposal. Stakeholders were urged to use the dustbins to prevent littering and improve overall sanitation.

The Secretary, State Agricultural Marketing Board, advised the Grain Market and Sabzi Mandi Associations to hold joint discussions and develop a mutual action plan to tackle the sanitation issues. He also directed the Administrator, Market Committee, to procure additional dustbins with a minimum capacity of 160 litres. Instructions were issued to the sanitation contractor to ensure daily cleaning of the entire mandi area, proper waste segregation, and timely garbage lifting.

The Agriculture Secretary listened attentively to all concerns raised by stakeholders. He directed the concerned departments to prepare a comprehensive plan to resolve the issues.

He also invited representatives of the associations for a round-table discussion to suggest remedial measures for improving conditions in the mandi.

Furthermore, he instructed the Chief Engineer to design a holistic and effective drainage system for better wastewater management in the mandi.

The stakeholders expressed their gratitude to the officers for their proactive approach and commitment to improving the conditions of the mandi.