In a rare move, the state government has reappointed Ramdas Kokare as deputy municipal commissioner (solid waste management) in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) following sustained public pressure and political intervention. The decision comes days after Kokare's sudden transfer sparked outrage among residents and civic activists.
Background of the Transfer
Kokare, renowned across Maharashtra for his innovative waste management and cleanliness models, was abruptly transferred last month after serving barely nine months at the KDMC. His next posting was not finalized at the time, leading to widespread protests.
Public and Political Support
The move triggered a strong public reaction, with residents launching campaigns demanding his return, citing his role in significantly improving solid waste management and cleanliness standards in the twin city. Sources indicated that KDMC commissioner Abhinav Goel also urged the state government to bring Kokare back, acknowledging his work and public support. It is learned that Kalyan Lok Sabha MP Shrikant Shinde played a pivotal role in pushing for his reinstatement, leading the government to revoke the transfer on Monday.
First Tenure and Achievements
Kokare was first brought to KDMC in 2020 with a mandate to overhaul the civic body's poor sanitation and waste management system, which had long been criticized for rampant garbage dumping and lack of segregation. During his first tenure, he played a key role in shutting the Adharwadi dumping ground and aggressively promoting waste segregation across the city. However, after his transfer at the end of that tenure, waste management conditions reportedly deteriorated again. Sources said this was a key reason why MP Shrikant Shinde earlier demanded Kokare's return for a second stint.
Second Stint and Impact
After rejoining KDMC, Kokare once again focused on waste segregation and scientific waste processing. Under his leadership, segregation levels, which had reportedly dropped to just 3%, rose to nearly 70%, among the highest in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). He also pushed biomining initiatives at the Adharwadi dumping ground and encouraged recycling and revenue generation through waste processing projects. His reappointment is expected to continue these positive trends and address ongoing waste management challenges in the region.
