Kohima reviews solid waste management rules

KOHIMA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): Waste segregation at source is to be made mandatory in Kohima, with vehicles carrying unsegregated waste not being permitted to unload, the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) CEO, Alemyapang Longchar, NCS, informed during a review meeting on October 12.The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS, at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, reviewed the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules in the district. Longchar highlighted the KMC’s ongoing information, education and communication programmes across wards to promote waste segregation and proper disposal.He also outlined plans to streamline waste collection through designated collection points and fixed timings, while strengthening community participation and enforcement. The meeting discussed mandatory segregation of waste at source, strengthening waste collection and processing infrastructure, promoting recycling, reducing dependence on landfills and ensuring accountability among waste generators.Longchar stressed the importance of “accurate digital reporting and timely updating of data on the centralised online portal.” He called for technical guidance and training for local bodies to improve reporting and compliance, besides dedicated staff to ensure continuity in sanitation management.The meeting identified inadequate waste-processing infrastructure, limited public awareness, financial constraints, gaps in data reporting and coordination among stakeholders as key challenges.Buchem suggested organising a dedicated workshop with resource persons to address issues concerning implementation of the rules. He observed that a workshop involving relevant stakeholder departments would provide a platform for discussion, improve coordination and help identify practical solutions for effective solid waste management in the district.Officials from the district administration, Urban Development, Rural Development and PHED, among others, attended the meeting.