GVMC steps up measures to curb waste dumping in city

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has intensified measures to check the indiscriminate dumping of waste at street corners, open spaces, and vacant sites in several parts of the city.

Officials said the accumulation of garbage in public places had affected the image of Visakhapatnam as a smart city and necessitated immediate intervention.

As part of the initiative, the civic body has drawn up an action plan to keep roads, colonies, and open areas free from litter, while promoting civic awareness among residents on proper waste disposal practices.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg directed public health officials to identify garbage vulnerable points (GVPs) in colonies, roads, streets, and open areas, and take corrective steps to prevent recurring dumping at such locations.

During inspections in various zones, the Commissioner emphasised the need for continuous monitoring of vulnerable points and effective enforcement to ensure sustainable results.

He also instructed officials to strengthen awareness campaigns and encourage residents to make use of the available waste collection system instead of dumping garbage in public places.

Officials said CLAP vehicles would continue to remain accessible in residential areas, while door-to-door waste collection services would be streamlined to ensure the timely disposal of household waste.

The Commissioner also interacted with residents to ascertain whether waste collection was being carried out regularly and whether CLAP vehicles were arriving on schedule.

The GVMC expressed confidence that, with public cooperation and sustained monitoring, the city would witness cleaner neighbourhoods and improved sanitation standards in the coming days.