Srinagar, Apr 23: The Jammu and Kashmir Government announced on Tuesday the commencement of financial bidding for the selection of a specialized agency tasked with the Collection, Transportation, Processing, and Disposal of Solid Waste to ensure the Sustainable and Zero Landfill status of the Amarnath Ji Yatra 2024.
The duration of the Amarnath Yatra 2024 is scheduled from June 20th to August 20th, 2024. The Directorate of Rural Sanitation, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Jammu & Kashmir has outlined a comprehensive approach divided into three main sections: collection, transportation, processing & disposal of Solid Waste generated at designated camps throughout the Yatra.
“This encompasses the primary and secondary collection of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) from specified collection points, including those designated at base camps and other locations along the Yatra route, both permanent and temporary settlements established for the event. The deployment of manpower for the collection and transportation of solid waste from these primary collection points is a key aspect of the plan.”
Additionally, the plan involves the deployment of an adequate number of transportation vehicles at camps to facilitate the collection and transportation of waste to processing facilities. The provision and installation of waste collection bins, crafted from HDPE or equivalent material, with sufficient capacity and color-coded for efficient waste segregation at source, are also included.
Furthermore, at base camps, the installation of twin bin sets at intervals of every 50 meters is proposed for the convenience of pilgrims. A focus on segregating organic/wet waste from other waste types, particularly from Langar’s (community kitchens) and other waste-generating establishments, is emphasized.
To facilitate media coverage of the pilgrimage, the appointed contractor is tasked with appointing a dedicated media liaison officer. This individual will coordinate with journalists, photographers, and videographers, ensuring smooth media access, interviews, and addressing queries.
Plastic waste management is also prioritized, with the establishment of Plastic Waste Collection Centers at key camp locations. These centers will exclusively handle plastic waste collected from pilgrims during their journey, with dedicated attendants and records maintained for accountability.
Moreover, initiatives such as the procurement and distribution of cloth bags to pilgrims for plastic waste collection, the provision of Water ATMs for free potable water. Additionally, a mobile application will be developed and maintained for the SANJY2024 pilgrimage.
It will provide vital information during the yatra, including the locations of toilets, Community Sanitary Complexes, and bathing facilities along the route, all geo-tagged for easy navigation.
“The app will also feature real-time weather forecasts. Furthermore, it will include a grievance redressal system allowing pilgrims to submit complaints regarding cleanliness and sanitation issues, with reporting mechanisms for designated nodal officers.”
