Solid and Liquid Waste Management in Rural Areas
According to a parliamentary committee, this year less than a quarter of the target villages will have the infrastructure to manage or dispose of solid and liquid waste.
Highlight of the findings of the report:
- Disappointing achievement of targets under Swachh Bharat Mission: According to this report, the implementation of infrastructure for solid and liquid waste management (SLWM), has lagged behind in the country. It is noteworthy that it was to be implemented under the second phase of the Swachh Bharat Mission.
- So far only 22% of target villages have been covered under solid waste management, and 12% of target villages under liquid waste management.
- The committee has criticized the government for under-utilisation of funds allocated under the Jal Jeevan Mission. A total of Rs 50,011 crore was allocated for this mission. In contrast, the actual expenditure incurred so far is only Rs 28,238 crore.
Objective of Jal Jeevan Mission
- By the year 2024, all rural households have to supply drinking water through taps.
- Solid and Liquid Waste Management (SLWM) refers to the collection, transportation, processing, recycling, treatment and disposal of waste materials in a scientific manner.
- SLWM is one of the major components of Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin. “Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin was launched with the aim of improving cleanliness, sanitation and general quality of life in rural areas.
- The office bearers of the Gram Panchayats have been made responsible for the design, implementation, operation and maintenance of the SLWM system with the support of the respective State Governments.
Source – The Hindu
