Despite several attempts to streamline the service of door to door garbage collection in the Capital City, the situation remains the same even after two years. In yet another major protest led by the workers of RMSW — Essel Infra —
the solid waste management firm, the day to day work of garbage collection has come to a complete standstill. Shortage of funds for refueling cleaning vehicles has compelled the sanitation workers to suspend the collection task since past four days now.
According to an official of RMSW- Essel Infra, the Civic Body is yet to release the payment as per the agreement clauses. A communiqué released by the company suggests, “A total of Rs. 8.39 crore is pending with the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC). Vehicle grants – Rs. 6.08 crore, December and January tipping fee — Rs. 1.6 crore, Mini Transfer Station (MTS) — Rs. 71 lakh. Additionally, Rs. 33 crore loss of opportunity have been also incurred as 20 wards are yet to be handed over to the respective firm.”
Notably, in 26 months, the lopsided approach of the company and unpreparedness of RMC has resulted in a series of protest led by the labourers for delay in their monthly disbursement including closure of MTS for more than a month at a few localities including the issue of registration of vehicles.
At present, the company is managing the door to door garbage collection work at 33 wards, while the other 20 wards are under the supervision of RMC. As per the agreement, the MSW – Essel Infra was supposed to take the charge of each ward by August 2018. Every month, the company is paid a sum of Rs. 80 lakh by RMC for its operation.
Meanwhile, Municipal Commissioner – Manoj Kumar assured that soon alternative arrangements will be made to rationalise the garbage collection service in Ranchi.
“The company’s record till date has been substandard.
If the company is further found to be incompetent to cover the wards, then RMC will take over the charge of all the wards within a month or two.
The Civic Body has drafted a blueprint. Soon, the proposal will be tabled before the members of RMC standing committee and will be presented during the council meeting. Considering the size, population, including the total number of labourers and vehicles, the details have been drafted. Assessment of financial encumber is also being done.”
The Town Commissioner further clarified that the Municipal Corporation may also terminate the company in the days to come.
“Since the company has failed utterly in delivering its responsibility, a decision regarding its termination will be taken soon. All aspects are being verified. As far as the dues are concerned, the payment has been released now.”
Kumar added that corporate funding has been stopped to RMSW-Essel Infra which is one of the prime reasons for the mess. “The problem of corporate funding is a stumbling block in carrying out the regular work. Also, on certain grounds like disposal of waste, installation of bio-methane gas plant, the company has shown no interest,” he added.
