Trivandrum Mayor Takes Action Against Dumping, Backed By Govt's Statewide Cleanliness Drive

Arya Rajendran S, the mayor of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, took action after spoiled oranges were found dumped in Punchakkari, a suburb of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. She posted a video showing workers collecting the discarded oranges into sacks and expressed dismay over the incident. Mayor Arya mentioned that Bismilla Fruits Company was responsible for the dumping, criticising their disregard for cleanliness and proper waste disposal practices. Despite the municipality’s efforts to implement scientific waste management solutions, untreated garbage poses health risks and can lead to water blockages. Arya emphasised the importance of maintaining a clean environment and urged residents to report any instances of open dumping to authorities at 9447377477. She assured strict actions against those found responsible for such actions, reinforcing the need for collective responsibility in keeping the city clean and healthy.

The Kerala government has undertaken many other steps as well to maintain cleanliness and stop the spread of communicable diseases. In May, the government issued directions to stop the spread of dengue, leptospirosis and jaundice that are likely to occur in the rainy season. State Health Minister Veena George talked about these steps in a high-level meeting. According to the minister," Cleanliness is most important. Maintaining proper hygiene and keeping our homes and surroundings clean is very important".

The minister said that the wells and drinking water resources should be cleaned. According to the politician, the water in schools should cleaned and treatment protocols should be strictly followed. The politician also called for ensuring sanitation in public accommodations and hostels per the Kerala Public Health Act 2023. The Kerala Public Health Act 2023, is the new and comprehensive law to guide public health activities in the State. The new Act unifies the provisions in the Madras Public Health Act, of 1939 and the Travancore-Cochin Public Health Act, of 1955. It was passed after several rounds of discussions with experts from various public health fora. Public opinion on various aspects of the proposed law was also collected.