Made Rs 650 crores in 2024 by selling waste materials

In just three and half years, the central government has proved that waste materials and recyclable wastes are indeed costly. From 2021 till now, 2364 crore rupees have reached the central exchequer in terms of sale of waste materials. The wastes stored in central government offices were collected through a cleanliness campaign. Rs 650 crores have been received from the sale of waste materials so far this year alone.

Apart from the awe-inspiring money, the government proved it was possible to remove all the accumulated waste in government offices and collection centres. This requires special praise since it is no menial task to remove waste from 190 lakh square feet area.

For years, the central government has been moving all cards to spread the word about Swachh Bharat across the country. Despite the many beseeching tactics, many states are lagging when it comes to cleanliness. Wastes in the form of paper and files are common sight in offices. Even if the waste piles up to the point of obstructing the smooth functioning of the office, the officials care not to remove it or auction it to generate income.

Not only the sale of waste products but also scientific management of waste storage and disposal should be made a part of urban culture. Areas like Indore, which has long maintained the reputation of being the cleanest city in the country, are showing exemplary standards. The Indore Municipal Corporation has set up a special treatment centre for waste collection from government offices.

In Kerala itself, the Brahmapuram Garbage Storage Center in Kochi recently gained attention for its introduction of modern systems. Thus it was proved that any city could make a facelift if the administrators and the government worked in tandem.

In most of the state, roads have improved, but the nauseous sight of waste piled on roadsides remains unchanged. Municipalities have installed CCTV cameras as baits to catch people dumping waste on the sidelines. However, no big improvement has been made and the cameras proved to be of little help. Moreover, the countless flex boards and hoardings across the city give cover for people to safely dump waste without getting caught in the act.

A long line of vehicles impounded by the police for violating traffic rules can be seen anywhere in Kerala. If the procedures are completed and they are auctioned, the government will get huge revenue. But even after rusting and getting worn out, the police dither when it comes to deciding on auction. They are destined to rust and perish. Despite the high court’s order, the police have not taken any prudent measures.