Srinagar 22 Jan(KNB): In a bid to promote environmental awareness, the Jammu and Kashmir Right to Information (RTI) Foundation hosted its 20th RTI Pend event, centering on “Solid Waste Management at Block Level.” The event, conducted online, drew considerable attention and participation.
Er. Irfan Banka, the host of RTI Pend at J&K RTI Foundation, opened the event by highlighting government initiatives and the importance of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode in solid waste management. The tendering process and Expression of Interests (EOIs) from various Rural Development Department offices were emphasized with a suggestion for providing complete support to the environment friendly organizations and civil societies.
Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, Acumen and Climate Action Fellow, a distinguished resource person and guest speaker, provided valuable insights into the implementation of Solid Waste Management Rules, emphasizing source segregation. Dr. Bhat advocated redirecting funds from segregation sheds to Material Recovery Facilities for enhanced efficiency.
An important appeal was made by Dr. Bhat, urging the people of Jammu and Kashmir to integrate environmental protection messages in Friday sermons, aligning with Quranic teachings. The success of the Solid Waste Management Program under SBM Gramin, according to Dr. Bhat, hinges on effective information, education, and awareness campaigns. He said panches, sarpanches, VLW’s, Masjid Imams, BDO’s, ACD’s, General Public, all need sensitization.
The participants pledged to initiate source segregation and convert liquid waste into manure at the household level. Dr. Bhat stressed that the success of the Solid Waste Management Program is intricately tied to the success of information and awareness campaigns.
Sheikh Maqbool, Syed Farhat, Sajad Hussain, Journalist Idrees Badrani and Mukhtar Hussain actively engaged in the discussion that followed the training session, contributing valuable insights and perspectives.
With 31 participants on Zoom and additional viewers on social media channels, the event underscored a growing commitment to sustainable waste management practices in the region. The J&K RTI Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in raising awareness and fostering community initiatives for a cleaner and greener future.(KNB)