Guwahati, 24th July: In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, the Assam government has inaugurated cutting-edge solid waste management projects across 48 municipalities as part of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Urban) program. This initiative aims to transform waste collection and management systems in cities of all sizes.
During a press conference at Janata Bhawan, Ashok Singhal, Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Irrigation, stressed the urgency of this initiative. He urged executive officers to achieve a 100% garbage-free status in all municipalities within the next year. Minister Singhal emphasized the importance of cleanliness and urged newly appointed executive officers under the Assam Urban Administrative Service to prioritize waste management in their areas.
The first phase of the project, funded under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Urban) in Assam, involves setting up 48 solid waste management plants. Construction is currently underway in 18 cities, with bidding for the remaining 30 cities in various stages of completion. Key municipalities where work has begun include Nalbari, Silapathar, Barpeta Road, Chapar, North Lakhimpur, Dhekiajuli, Kokrajhar, Barpathar, Sarupathar, Golaghat, Margherita, Dumduma, Kharupetia, Mangaldoi, North Guwahati, Tezpur, Bokakhat, and Silchar.
Notable progress has been observed in Silapathar, Barpeta Road, Chapar, North Lakhimpur, and Dhekiajuli, with over 50% of the work completed. The project in Nalbari is nearing its final stages. The next phase will expand the initiative to additional municipalities across the state.
Minister Singhal reiterated the government’s dedication to cleanliness during a training program for executive officers at the Assam Administrative Officers’ College in Khanapara. He highlighted the pivotal role of these officers in the successful implementation of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and other developmental projects.
Furthermore, Minister Singhal held a meeting with municipalities and deputy mayors at Janata Bhawan, underscoring the importance of efficient execution of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Urban) initiatives. The meeting, attended by senior officials from the housing and urban affairs departments, emphasized the collaborative effort needed to achieve a cleaner and healthier state.
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