Image Credits: The Hindu
The Kerala High Court has sharply criticized the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, for its deteriorating waste management system, describing the situation as an “embarrassment” for the city. The court’s comments come amid mounting concerns over the significant accumulation of plastic waste in local canals, which has exacerbated flooding and environmental degradation.
During a recent hearing, the High Court highlighted the alarming increase in plastic waste flowing into the city’s canals, which has turned them into “dumpsites” rather than functional waterways. The court expressed frustration over the municipal authorities’ failure to address the issue effectively, despite previous warnings and orders aimed at improving waste management practices.
The judicial reprimand was accompanied by a call for immediate and comprehensive reforms. The court directed the local municipal corporation to submit a detailed action plan outlining measures to enhance waste collection, recycling, and disposal processes. It also emphasized the need for better public awareness campaigns to reduce plastic use and improve community participation in waste management.
In response, the municipal corporation has pledged to implement the court’s recommendations. Plans include increasing the frequency of waste collection, improving the efficiency of waste segregation at source, and expanding recycling facilities. Additionally, the authorities will initiate a city-wide clean-up drive and work on installing better waste containment systems along the canals.
The issue of plastic waste has been a growing concern across India, with several cities struggling to manage the environmental impact of increasing plastic consumption. Thiruvananthapuram’s situation is reflective of broader challenges faced by urban centres in managing waste and maintaining sanitation.