Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Oct 6: Similar to Union government’s Swachh Survekshan Survey which ranks cities across India for cleanliness, the Government of Karnataka may roll out a rating module to rank urban local bodies in State, to motivate them to take up cleanliness initiatives and implement them creatively.

Director of Municipal Administration D A Shekharappa told media that ratings act as a booster. “It was a matter of pride for Karnataka when Mysuru came first in Clean India rankings but currently it is slipped in 8th position. We are planning to use classifications and parameters employed by Union government and rate ULB’s at state level and give awards to corporations and councils to improve situation,” he said.

Additional Chief Secretary of Urban Development Department Anjum Parvez pointed out that ranking at state level will create awareness. He further stressed the need for people’s participation especially when it came to simple tasks such as garbage segregation.

Speaking on implementing underground drainage (UGD) system for small cities, Parvez said it becomes costly. “Cities with less than 50,000 homes can be handled better without the necessity of UGD. Faecal waste can be pumped out using suction plants and processed at plants. This is an effective solution,” he said.

Parvez added that some cities in north Karnataka and districts like Kolar and Chikballapur face water scarcity yet have given importance to developing infrastructure. Solid waste management is equally important, he added.