KARACHI (Karachi Fact): In a high-level meeting chaired by Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, a decisive plan has been approved to eliminate open garbage dumps (Kachra Kundis) from the city’s major thoroughfares to improve the overall sanitation and aesthetic of the metropolis.
Strategic Cleanup and Relocation Plan
During the session held at the Commissioner’s office, the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) provided a detailed briefing on the city’s current cleanliness status. Key takeaways from the briefing include:
- Progress Report: Out of 3,000 small and large garbage dumps across Karachi, 2,500 have already been removed.
- Targeted Action: A concrete plan is in place to relocate the remaining 500 dumps currently obstructing roads.
- Recycling Infrastructure: Each district will establish a dedicated Recycling Site as an alternative to traditional garbage dumps. The SSWMB is currently coordinating with town administrations to identify suitable locations for these units.
Accountability and Monitoring
Commissioner Naqvi issued stern directives to all Deputy Commissioners and SSWMB officials to ensure that improvements are visible to the citizens.
- Zero Tolerance: In areas where cleanliness complaints persist, the relevant officer-in-charge will be required to provide a formal explanation.
- Enhanced Supervision: Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with making the monitoring system more effective within their respective districts.
- Operational Efficiency: Emphasis was placed on improving sweeping performance and ensuring strict adherence to official working hours.
Labor Rights and Child Labor Prevention
Taking serious notice of reports regarding minors working in sanitation, the meeting resolved that:
- Age Compliance: All officials must strictly enforce age limit regulations for employment.
- Minimum Wage: SSWMB must ensure that all staff and sanitary workers are paid according to the government’s prescribed minimum wage law.
Modern Waste Management
Managing Director of SSWMB, Tariq Nizamani, further updated the Commissioner on the establishment of Garbage Transfer Stations (GTS) and the installation of recycling units at landfill sites, aiming for a more sustainable waste management cycle for Karachi.
