Dedicated cell to ensure cleaner and more sustainable urban environments: CM
Punjab Newsline, Shimla, August 19-
In a significant move to enhance waste management in urban areas, the Himachal govt has decided to create a dedicated ‘Environmental Cell’ within the Department of Urban Development. This initiative aims to address the growing challenges of solid and liquid waste management in the state's urban centers, which have been exacerbated by rapid urbanization.
CM Sukhvinder Sukhu emphasized the urgency of this measure, noting that the state's 60 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), which include five MC's, 29 Councils and 26 Panchayats, were struggling to cope with the increasing demand for municipal services. "Solid and Liquid Waste Management is the biggest challenge being faced by the urban local bodies today. Therefore, there will be a dedicated cell to meet these challenges, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable urban environments across Himachal Pradesh," the CM stated.
The UDD, which is responsible for implementing various WMR, currently lacks the technical manpower necessary for effective execution. The newly established Environmental Cell is expected to bridge this gap by providing the necessary staff and expertise. Currently, waste management tasks are managed by the project branch of the Directorate of Urban Development.
