If INDIA has to build unpolluted smart cities in the country, it is common sense that we need to address the compounding issue of DEBRIS management. I am afraid so far since independence we have had no NATIONAL policy on this issue. There is just no clarity as to who is responsible for such a basic yet serious issue of DEBRIS management across the country.
My RTI query with UDD ministry has created further doubts as to where is the policy and where does the buck stop as far as DEBRIS management is concerned. Two of the ministry departments who have responded, the status is anything but worrying. NBCCL has no such policy. CPWD only manages to remove its own construction waste and not DEBRIS.
The present state across Indian Cities/Towns/Villages is alarming to say the least. People who demolish their old buildings to construct the new ones are dumping their DEBRIS
a. On the road shoulders, albeit when no one is watching
b. Into the storm water and other drains, thus choking the smooth flow
c. In to the lake and river beds, polluting and killing the water bodies.
d. Empty sites in and around the dwellings creating filth & mosquito menace
To build a Smart Unpolluted India, Swach Bharat, Save precious water bodies, make roads safer with no water logging, eliminate filthy scenes, avoid mosquito and other disease causing bacteria it is PARAMOUNT that a NATIONAL policy on DEBRIS management is devised on war footing with strict penal provisions. Simply collecting additional taxes in the name of Swatch Bharat will only add to the already over burdened taxes.
I have urged the Ministry of UD at both central and state level including the Minister for Bengaluru to address this ever growing menace on war footing before it grows to a demonic proportion.
After my correspondence with the Ministry for UDD at Govt of India I have been informed by GOI vide their letter no Q-11022/01/2015-PHE(Vol.II) dated 10 Sep 2015 that a draft policy has now been notified by Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change in their website at chapter 2 dealong with construction & demolition waste at http://www.moef.nic.in/sites/default/files/Public%20Notice%20on%20Draft%20Waste%20Management%20Rules%20updated.pdf. For more clarity on draft rules visit http://www.moef.nic.in/sites/default/files/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20rule.pdf
The public now have an option to voice their opinion on such an important law which will have far reaching consequences for the well being of Environment and Human life and also that of flora and fauna.
Jaihind