Permanent solution to garbage problem mooted

Irangika Range

COLOMBO: In an effective bid to rid the Colombo city of mounting garbage dumping grounds, the Government will present a permanent solution by 2010 implementing Pilisaru, a national waste management programme to create a green and clean environment which sustains human life and nature.

"This programme will create an ambient environment in the Colombo city," said Environmental and Natural Resources Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka yesterday after visiting the garbage dumping ground in Bloemendhal Road area.

The garbage dumping ground has been cited as the main culprit responsible for noxious environmental pollution in the Colombo city. He visited the garbage dumping ground in Madampitiya as well.

Ranawaka told the media that over 80 per cent garbage of Colombo city are brought to the garbage dumping ground in Bloemendhal area. Around 1,000 tonnes of garbage are dumped in the area daily, adversely affecting the environment and people.

To provide a better solution for the burning problem of garbage disposal, a second stage of the Pilisaru Programme will be conducted by the Ministry with the assistance of the Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry and all local Government authorities on April 2.

An eco-friendly organic fertiliser manufacturing project is being implemented by Burns Waste Management by using garbage. But without a proper sorting method of releasing garbage in the area, they have to face many hardships.

The minister assured that a solution will be provided within one week by creating a proper procedure for the sorting of garbage as degradable and non-degradable in collaboration with the Colombo Municipal Council.

"We expect to give concessions for the promotion of organic fertiliser manufacture in the country under the recommendation of the Finance Ministry targeting the creation of a healthful society," he said.