Mumbai: In order to keep pace with the multiple criteria needed to participate in the Swachhata Surveksha (Cleanliness Survey) 2018, the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has roped in local rag pickers, recognising them as a workforce, to further intensify its cleanliness drive and at the same time boost its prospects in the ranking table. The Central government authorities under its ambitious Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) are conducting the survey.
After identifying around 150 rag pickers (waste collectors) operating in the twin-city, the MBMC’s health department led by deputy municipal commissioner Dr Sambhajji Panpatte, in the presence of city SBM coordinator Madhupriya Awate and sanitary inspectors had identified around 150 rag-pickers who were trained in segregating solid waste and create awareness amongst the local populace.
“Many of these rag pickers already had enough knowledge about segregating trash. We gave them further training and handed over identity cards to ensure that people can bank on their services. Regular review meets will be conducted from now on,” said Dr Panpatte while emphasising on the need to make the waste pickers a part of SBM for maintenance of cleanliness in better and efficient way.
The civic administration has also assured to provide proper uniforms and conduct free medical camps among other facilities for the rag-pickers.
“We are also a citizen of this country and are eager to be a part of the mission. We would be obliged if the authorities extend other benefits like medical insurance and enrollment of our children into government schools,” said Munna, a waste picker from Kashimira. Rag-pickers suffer social stigma and face problems in doing their work.
