The capital city is yet to witness a viable and lasting solution to the teething garbage issue. But go to Pattoor, in the heart of the city, to witness how a clear-headed initiative could reverse the trend, that too without waiting for the government or the Corporation to step in.
After launching a futuristic bio-mechanical device to process wastes a couple of weeks ago, residents of 198 flats and allottees of 16 house plots under the pioneering Pattoor Housing Accommodation Scheme (PHAS) of the Kerala State Housing Board have upgraded the drive for manufacturing and distribution of organic manure. The official launch of sale of organic manure will be conducted by Shashi Tharoor MP in the presence of Mayor K Chandrika, at a function slated at KSHB Apartment Complex, Pattoor on June 16, at 11 am.
The project is implemented in the State as a unique model for apartments and local self-governments. “Realising that we had no other option but to find our own solution for managing wastes, residents of PHAS decided to chip in ` 2,000 each for the venture. Loans have also been availed and the cost of the project has gone up to ` 5.5 lakh now. Some work is also remaining. We’re approaching the Government for further assistance,” said John Samuel, secretary of the residents’ association.
Organic manure is being produced from the 10th day of installation of the plant. The manure is under certification from the Kerala Agriculture University. The bio-manure will be sold to the needy at a nominal rate of ` 3 per kilo. “The Karunagapally-based firm which has installed the unit will take care of it also,” John Samuel said.
Planning Board member C P John, Pollution Control Board Chairman K Rajeev, Suchitwa Mission executive director Chacko Manacheril and ward councillor Kumari Padmanabhan will offer felicitations during the launching ceremony.
