Kochi to get more modern waste bins under ₹50-lakh project

KOCHI: The Kochi city corporation is set to install more waste bins across tourist centres and public spaces, with a project estimated at ₹50 lakhs. Tenders have been invited under the Swachh Bharat Mission for the purchase and installation of these bins.

In the first phase, nearly 100 bins were placed at key locations, including Fort Kochi and the initiative proved successful. Encouraged by the response, the Corporation has now decided to expand the project. Earlier, bottle booths had also been set up to collect plastic bottles as part of its waste management efforts.

earlier, large barrels had been kept for public waste disposal, but these were removed after heaps of garbage began forming around them. Until recently, the city had very few bins available in public spaces.

The availability of bins in public areas has now become an important factor in the Central Government’s sanitation survey. As per guidelines, cities must provide facilities for segregated waste disposal. In line with this, modern bins are being installed across Kochi.

The new bins, made of stainless steel, will come with either two or three compartments to allow separate disposal of biodegradable, plastic and paper waste. Each unit will measure 1.25 metres in length, one metre in height and 45 centimetres in width, and will be fitted with rain guards for protection.

Corporation Health Standing Committee Chairperson T K Asharaf said that workers will empty the bins at regular intervals to ensure smooth waste management.