Rain cripples garbage collection system

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, August 18

Heavy rain has again impacted the garbage collection system in the city today, exposing the apathy of the Municipal Corporation towards addressing the issue.

Dustbins remain unattended throughout the day with the garbage collection mechanism losing its efficiency. The sluggish garbage clearance system is adding to the woes of commuters and passers-by as it generates a foul smell. GT Road, one of the busiest roads in the city, was the worst affected.

This is also leading to health hazards in various parts of the city, including residential areas.

Senior officials have been claiming that they were trying to improve the situation by making the officials concerned more accountable.

Rajbir, a city resident, said: “Overflowing bins have become a common feature of the city. The issue gets magnified during rains. Many stray animals roam around the litter near these dustbins. It would be much better if the bins are cleared on a daily basis. Gradually, these are becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes.”

However, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Bikramjit Singh Shergill had claimed that quite significant changes had been made to tackle the issue.

“Now, there will be one official for monitoring garbage-related issues in each zone. Earlier, it was lacking. The town has been divided into eight zones for better sanitation and cleaning, he said.

Shergill said: “Gradually, we are going to put ourselves in a situation where we will first clean the accumulated garbage, then ensure its regular picking. We will soon have 40 e-rickshaws to lift garbage across the city.”