Facing public scrutiny over the effectiveness of its door-to-door garbage collection service, the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has come out strongly in defense of its operations. Council officials insist the system is running with significant efficiency, attributing much of its success to a robust online mechanism for tracking and resolving public complaints.
MMC Stands Firm on Collection Efficiency
In response to the criticism, a senior MMC official familiar with waste management operations provided a detailed explanation. The official firmly stated that the door-to-door waste collection system works fine. Addressing a common grievance, the official noted that residents sometimes complain about collectors arriving after they have left their homes for the day. However, the council emphasized that sanitation workers cannot be expected to visit every household at each resident's personal convenience.
These workers have multiple responsibilities beyond just collection. Their duties also include waste segregation and the critical task of clearing illegally dumped garbage from identified black spots within their assigned zones. This multifaceted role is part of the council's broader strategy to keep the town clean.
How the Online Monitoring System Ensures Accountability
The backbone of the current system is a digital oversight platform. Sources within the waste management department revealed that all field activities are now closely tracked through an internal online messaging group. Field supervisors are required to post regular updates and the status of complaints on this platform.
This system ensures transparency and accountability, as local elected representatives and senior municipal officials are also part of the communication loop. "Since everybody engaged in the waste collection and disposal system is aware that their activities are closely monitored, they cannot afford to be lax," explained an official.
The grievance redressal process has reportedly been effective. Whether a complaint is lodged verbally or in writing, it is immediately communicated via the online group. The concerned supervisor then notes the issue and dispatches workers to address it. While the official target for resolution is set at 24 hours, most complaints are reportedly attended to and resolved within two to three hours.
The Future: A New Gasification Plant to Streamline Disposal
Looking ahead, MMC officials are pinning hopes on a new infrastructural project to further enhance the town's waste management capabilities. A 10-tonnes-per-day (TPD) gasification plant is scheduled to be commissioned later this month.
This facility is expected to significantly streamline the final disposal process, offering a more scientific and efficient method to handle the collected waste. The council believes this addition will complement the existing collection and monitoring framework, leading to an overall improvement in Margao's sanitation landscape.
