Upalokayukta calls for replication of Rayanakere waste treatment plants in other districts of Karnataka

Upalokayukta K.N. Phaneendra inspected the functioning of the waster water treatment plant and solid waste management unit at Rayanakere on Thursday, and called for its replication in other districts of Karnataka.

Expressing satisfaction about the facility and its functioning, he praised the upkeep of the same, and said that a proposal would be submitted to the government to establish similar water treatment plants and solid waste management units in other cities and districts.

Mr. Phaneendra was apprised of the operations of the water treatment plant, which processes sewage water for safe discharge into nearby lakes.

While noting that the plant was well maintained, he emphasised the need for taking precautionary measures to prevent inconvenience to nearby residents. He visited the pumping station and sought detailed information from officials, stressing the importance of ensuring that the treated water does not pose any health or environmental risks.

At the adjoining solid waste management facility operated by the Mysuru City Corporation, the Upalokayukta observed the segregation and disposal processes for dry and wet wastes. Impressed by its efficiency, he said that a proposal would be submitted to the government recommending the construction of similar solid waste processing units in Bengaluru and other districts, using the Mysuru model as a benchmark.

The officials were instructed to conduct a public impact assessment in a 5-10 km radius around the waste management units to ensure that the residents in the nearby area were not affected.

The Upalokayukta also instructed the local authorities to initiate action against illegal housing layouts and unauthorised construction in the vicinity of the facility, clear vegetation within the plant premises, and ensure the safety of the workers.

Mr. Phaneendra also suggested that a monthly health check-up camp be conducted for the staff working in the waste management plants, and directed that quality gloves, boots, masks, etc., be provided for their safety and protection.

Mysuru City Corporation commissioner Shaikh Tanveer Asif, Karnataka State Pollution Control Board officer Uma Shankar, and others were present.