Waste management for Jaffna too

Yasarathna GAMAGE

The UNDP in collaboration with the HELP-O (Human Environmental Links Progressive Organization) implemented a waste management program in Jaffna recently. The Bio Gas project (producing energy using green waste and garbage) funded by UNDP has shown tremendous success in several other cities. The HELP-O has signed an agreement with the UNDP to carry out the project in Mutthu Thammpi School in Jaffna.

This is the first ever bio gas waste management project in the north according to HELP-O Chairman/Chief Executive Chathura Weliwitiya. The unit capacity is 12 cubic meters . The project is intended at introducing waste management by producing bio gas which can be used as a source of energy. The unit installed in the Muththuthampi school would provide gas energy to cook food for 600 students.

In parallel to the event run with the financial assistance through UNDP Jaffna office under the Micro Capital Grant, the HELP-O is carrying out some awareness programs to the maintenance staff, students and teachers of the school.

These are: Technical workshop to the management committee on 'maintenance and management of the plant' Workshop for teachers on 'effectiveness and benefits of using the bio gas plant' Two comprehensive seminars for students on 'effectiveness and benefits'.

HELP-O Project Manager Darshana Madurange told Daily News that they were hoping to expand the project to other schools in Jaffna in the future.

He also stated that after the dawn of peace Jaffna is ushering towards development and there was the urgent necessity of a waste management process in the city. The project uses waste to produce bio gas which saves money and time helping the city to be a pleasant place.