Shimla, Aug 19,
Addressing the challenge of waste management across urban areas, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the creation of a dedicated ‘Environmental Cell’ within the Department of Urban Development. Due to rapid urbanization the growing challenges of solid and liquid waste management in the state’s urban centers is compounding.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the urgency of this measure, pointing out that the state’s 60 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)—comprising five Municipal Corporations, 29 Municipal Councils, and 26 Nagar Panchayats—are currently struggling to meet the increasing demand for municipal services. “Solid and Liquid Waste Management is the biggest challenge being faced by the urban local bodies today. Therefore, there will be a dedicated cell to meet these challenges, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable urban environments across Himachal Pradesh,” stated the Chief Minister.
The Urban Development Department, responsible for implementing various Waste Management Rules, currently lacks the technical manpower necessary for effective execution. The newly established Environmental Cell is expected to address this issue by providing the required staff and expertise. Until now, waste management tasks have been handled by the project branch of the Directorate of Urban Development. The formation of the Environmental Cell is viewed as a critical step towards making the state’s ULBs more environmentally sustainable.
Chief Minister Sukhu also stressed the importance of proper waste disposal, warning that improper management of solid and liquid waste can have a cascading effect on public health, the environment, and overall quality of life. “Effective waste management practices are essential not only to prevent the spread of diseases and protect drinking water but also to maintain air quality and safeguard the overall well-being of the community,” he emphasized.
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