GULBARGA: The State Government has started creating infrastructure for solid waste management in urban areas on a directive from the Supreme Court.

Disposing of a petition in this regard, the court had directed the Union Government to ask State governments to take steps to implement programmes for the scientific disposal of solid waste in urban areas.

The Centre issued directions to States and asked them to send a report of compliance. However, State governments failed to take immediate steps, it is learnt.

Official sources said here on Thursday that the Karnataka Government is now introducing a system for solid waste management in major cities and towns.

They said the Government has identified 57 cities and towns to implement the programme. Of 218 sites found suitable for setting up facilities, it has taken possession of 138 sites. Land acquisition at the other sites has begun.

Senior officials of the Karnataka Urban Development department told The Hindu here on Thursday that the State is implementing the Supreme Court directive.

Sources said the Government has asked urban civic bodies to select agencies for the collection of solid waste, and identify and acquire sites for setting up waste disposal plants. Civic bodies have been told to purchase vehicles for transporting waste.

In Gulbarga, the authorities have identified 28.18 acres of government land at Udnur village on the outskirts of the city. The land has been handed over to the Gulbarga City Municipal Corporation.

Sources said urban civic bodies should share the expenditure on solid waste management. The Government will provide additional funds and help them purchase vehicles for transporting garbage to the disposal unit. For Gulbarga City Corporation, the Government is ready to provide a grant of Rs. 1 crore provided the corporation contributes the same amount immediately. It will provide Rs. 1.60 crore to the corporation for purchasing equipment and vehicles.

The Government plans to use the services of Stree Shakti groups and non-governmental organisations in collecting garbage and transporting it to waste management sites.

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