In a decisive move to enhance urban governance, Municipal Commissioner Amit Kumar led a crucial review meeting in Chandigarh on Friday. The session aimed at fortifying the city's approach to handling bulk waste and ensuring rigorous adherence to fire safety regulations.
Focus on Source Segregation and Rule Compliance
The meeting, aligned with the Solid Waste Management (MSW) Rules, 2016 and Swachhata guidelines, centered on several critical areas. Amit Kumar stressed that effective waste segregation at source and scientific handling of bulk waste are non-negotiable. He directed all bulk waste generators—including commercial units, institutions, and large residential complexes—to ensure 100% segregation at their premises.
These establishments must also maintain up-to-date records and fully comply with the statutory MSW Rules. The commissioner issued a clear warning that any deviation from these mandates would invite strict punitive action from the Municipal Corporation (MC).
Zero Tolerance for Dumping and Fire Safety Lapses
Reiterating the MC's commitment to a clean environment, Kumar explicitly prohibited the dumping of waste on vacant plots or in open areas. Violators of this rule will face firm legal consequences.
The review also extensively covered fire safety preparedness across the city. Commissioner Kumar instructed all stakeholders to conduct regular inspections and ensure firefighting equipment is updated and functional. He mandated regular awareness sessions for staff and directed officers to prevent the storage of expired or hazardous products. Routine checks of electrical systems were also ordered to mitigate fire risks.
Strict Enforcement of Advertisement Norms
In addition to waste and safety protocols, the meeting emphasized strict compliance with the Advertisement Act. Establishments were reminded to display advertisements only at permitted locations as per official guidelines. Failure to adhere to these norms will result in penal action.
The commissioner has tasked various departments with intensifying their inspection drives. They must ensure compliance across all three fronts—waste management, fire safety, and advertisement rules—and submit detailed action-taken reports within stipulated deadlines.
The Municipal Corporation reaffirmed its resolve to implement Swachhata and safety norms in a time-bound and transparent manner. It seeks active cooperation from all residents, institutions, and commercial stakeholders to collectively make Chandigarh a cleaner, safer, and fully compliant city.
