Srinagar, May 16: Waste management has emerged as a significant challenge in Jammu and Kashmir, with approximately 40 percent of municipal waste categorized as wet waste, suitable for composting into valuable manure.
This revelation, as per a government report, underscores the urgent need for effective waste management strategies in the region.
Failure to address this concern promptly could exacerbate the situation, rendering it even more daunting, it reads.
However, despite the availability of viable solutions such as composting, the implementation of effective waste management policies remains a challenge. Municipalities must not only establish infrastructure but also enforce solid-waste management policies outlined in the 2016 regulations, the report says.
The gap between policy formulation and implementation has hindered progress in waste management efforts, leaving much to be desired.
“In Srinagar district alone, a staggering 400 metric tons of waste are generated daily, with a significant portion being organic. Yet, inadequate segregation of waste and insufficient infrastructure for proper waste collection exacerbate the problem. Civic bodies often lament the lack of cooperation from residents in segregating waste, but without a robust waste collection system in place, segregation efforts prove futile,” a senior official said.
The official said the presence of plastic and metal waste further complicates the situation, highlighting the need for recycling initiatives to mitigate environmental impact.
“While composting presents a sustainable solution for organic waste, challenges persist in making the resulting manure economically viable. Ultimately, addressing the waste management crisis in Jammu and Kashmir requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government authorities, civic bodies, and the public,” the official added.
