Will Kochi Become India’s First Waste-Free City by August?

The Kochi Municipal Corporation Council gave its nod to an ambitious plan aimed at declaring Kochi a waste-free city by August.

According to TOI, Mayor M Anilkumar devised an action plan to achieve this target. “Declaration will be made in August, adhering to all state government guidelines,” he told TOI.

Under the plan, each division is expected to be allocated Rs 1 lakh for waste clearance. Haritha Karma Sena members will get health insurance in addition to uniforms, gloves and other necessary gear.

A key feature of the initiative includes the installation of QR codes linked to the Kochi app in all households and establishments, ensuring proper waste removal and timely payment of collection fees.

“Councillors should go to each household in their divisions and ensure that QR code for waste collection is installed there. Checking should be conducted at shops and other institutions as well,” he said.

“A calendar-based waste collection system will be ensured to make the process efficient and accurate,” mayor added.

“Commercial establishments operating without license will be identified. More vehicles and facilities will be made available for waste removal and collection. Strict instructions will be given to all institutions to ensure green protocol while conducting events and daily operations. Vacant plots in the city will be taken over for cleaning as per Disaster Management Act. A Rs 5-crore project is being prepared to clean and beautify areas, including Fort Kochi Beach, with the support of state govt and tourism department,” Anilkumar said.

To ensure progress, a monitoring committee led by secretary will oversee the implementation and hold officials accountable if the goal is not met within the specified timeframe.

While the opposition has expressed support for the initiative, they raised concerns about ensuring that the city is genuinely waste-free and that the management addresses the existing problem of waste piling up in many areas.