Kollam District Collector Anie Jula Thomas announced that strict measures, including substantial penalties, will target violations such as unauthorized waste disposal. During a meeting with Local Self-Governments department secretaries at the Collectorate on Thursday, she noted that fines totaling ₹5,25,350 have been levied and 106 cases filed across local bodies in the district.
To improve solid waste management, the Collector ordered creation of a district-level cell to enhance coordination among local bodies. She stressed the need to locate and act against illegal dumping sites while ensuring Material Collection Facilities in panchayats operate effectively.
Large establishments must handle waste at source, with local bodies required to set up processing systems and perform regular checks. Non-biodegradable waste should be transferred only to agencies approved by local authorities. Local bodies were also asked to report any new waste management efforts.
Plans will be prepared soon for waste handling at tourist sites, pilgrimage centers, water bodies and beaches, along with a quicker grievance system. The Haritha Karma Sena door-to-door collection will expand further, she added.
The meeting included LSGD Joint Director S. Subodh, Deputy Director Ajayakumar, District Medical Officer A.L. Sheeja and secretaries from various local self-government bodies.
