Kozhikode: Zero tolerance to waste project

KOZHIKODE: District administration is all set to take action against 18 panchayats failing to follow its directives on the zero-waste project. The other 70 have already completed the tendering process, and the companies selected have started the first phase of setting up waste management system. District collector U.V. Jose said they were given six months to start the process.

"Since it's four months already, we will conduct the last level meeting with the panchayats standing out. After this, we'll invoke Disaster Management Act to ensure compliance," he told DC. "Also, we will use force to start the process in these panchayats. We have communicated this to their secretaries, and we expect them to comply. Our mission is to bring it in shape in three months from now."

Setting up of material recovery facilities and shredding units are among the initial tasks using the funds from local bodies. The primary reason for the 18 staying away is the opposition from residents' associations who fear it would end up as a burden on them. The government has sanctioned Rs 61 lakh for the first phase of the zero waste project in Kozhikode district.