Two cameras to watch over 37 wards: Changanassery’s waste menace persists
Waste management in Changanassery is facing challenges with unchecked dumping, despite efforts using portable cameras.
Waste management in Changanassery is facing challenges with unchecked dumping, despite efforts using portable cameras.
Waste management in Changanassery is facing challenges with unchecked dumping, despite efforts using portable cameras.
Changanassery: Amid growing public frustration over rampant waste dumping, the municipality is relying on just two portable cameras to monitor offenders across 37 wards. Many residents are now asking whether such a limited system can really make a difference. They have long been demanding the installation of more cameras to effectively curb the issue.
A portable camera can be moved between locations, usually shifted among known dumping spots with the help of technical experts. The cameras were first installed along the bypass road in August, which initially reduced dumping in the area. However, once the camera was relocated, garbage started piling up again along the bypass. Fixed cameras have also been placed near the Fathimapuram dumping yard and Laayikkad on the bypass.
₹2 lakh in fines
According to the municipality’s health wing, over ₹2 lakh has been collected in fines from those caught dumping waste since August. Offenders using vehicles were identified with the help of the Motor Vehicles Department through license plate numbers. The cameras also captured individuals on foot, dumping waste hidden in shopping bags. Notices were then sent to their addresses, and fines were collected. In some cases, individuals reportedly sought help from political figures to avoid paying penalties.
Repeat offenders
Some offenders have been caught more than once. One man who dumped waste in town during the early hours was fined ₹5,000. Later, when the same camera was shifted to a new location, he was caught again dumping waste there — this time fined ₹10,000 for the repeated offence.
Where does the garbage go?
Waste dumped across town is cleared by sanitation workers. Biodegradable waste is sent to the aerobic composting unit to be converted into manure. Non-biodegradable materials, including plastic, are handed over to a private company, for which the municipality pays ₹10 per kilogram. Officials say indiscriminate dumping continues to strain municipal finances and resources.
Lack of cooperation
The misuse of bottle collection booths has also become common. People are disposing of other waste materials in these units. Even in areas where separate boxes are provided for different kinds of waste, garbage is often dumped on top of them instead.