Jammu, Feb 23: Director General Rural Sanitation Jammu and Kashmir, Anoo Malhotra, undertook a comprehensive visit to district Samba and Udhampur to assess the functionality of Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G) assets.
An official spokesperson said the visit aimed to ensure the effective implementation of sanitation facilities and timely interventions for better results in door-to-door waste collection, collection of user charges and community involvement in different activities.
During her visit, Malhotra meticulously inspected the sanitation facilities at Kali Mata Mandir Block Tikri. She directed the concerned officers to expedite the construction of a Community Compost Pit and Community Soak Pit before the commencement of Amarnath Yatra, emphasising the importance of clean and hygienic facilities for pilgrims and locals alike.
Continuing her inspection, Malhotra visited Panchayat Kambal Danga to evaluate the functional status of the Community Biogas plants constructed under GOBARdhan.
She stressed the need for proper maintenance and utilisation of these plants to maximise their benefits for the community.
Addressing a large gathering at Panchayat Ghar Kambal Danga. Malhotra highlighted the significance of community participation in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. She emphasised the role of everyone in ensuring the success of sanitation initiatives.
She stressed for the creation of “Bartan Bank” at community level to get rid of Single Use Plastic (SUP). Malhotra visited Panchayat Chari, where she inspected the Community Soak Pit, Community Compost Pit, and Kitchen Gardens developed on Greywater. She reiterated the importance of sustainable sanitation practices and encouraged the community to actively participate in such initiatives.
Malhotra also visited Plastic Waste Management Unit (PWMU) Narsoo and ensured the efficient processing of plastic waste for reuse in different forms. Earlier, Malhotra undertook a comprehensive tour of sanitation initiatives in the Upper Birpur and Bhadoria Panchayats, demonstrating her commitment to fostering cleanliness and sustainable waste management practices in rural areas.
In Upper Birpur Panchayat, she engaged with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to inspire them to become champions of cleanliness by leading door-to-door collection campaigns and managing user charges efficiently. She emphasised the importance of SHGs in spearheading Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns to drive behavioural change within their communities.
Continuing her tour, Malhotra visited Bhadoria Panchayat in Block Bari Brahmana, where she commended Dinkar Sharma for his exemplary private dairy farm. Sharma's farm showcased a holistic approach to sustainability, incorporating composting facilities, solar panels, and biodigesters to manage waste effectively.
