‘Obstacles in dumping process’: Mohali Mayor blames MLA for garbage distress

Armed men are intimidating workers at the site identified for green waste dumping, forcing the labourers to flee, he said, adding that, “This is a serious matter.”

To make sure that the city’s cleanliness operations continue without disruption, Sidhu demanded that the MLA ensure adequate security arrangements through the SSP.

The mayor also claimed, “Green waste does not emit any foul smell, yet there are obstacles in the dumping process.”

He claimed that the Municipal Corporation is doing everything to maintain cleanliness. However, lack of space and security is hampering the process.

Sidhu cautioned that Mohali’s sanitation system could come to a halt if the government failed to act. He urged the MLA to either provide an alternative site or secure the existing land for waste dumping.

The mayor also said the proposed site lies on both sides of a main road, and building separate gates and boundaries is excessive.

Searching for daily dumping spots

Mohali’s sanitation contractor is reportedly scouting new locations every day to dump waste. Recently, sources said garbage was dumped under a bridge near the Phase 8B migrant colony. It is when the locals intervened, the activity was stopped.

Officials from the Municipal Corporation and the Commissioner’s office visited the spot after complaints. The Commissioner, however, asked the objectors to first produce ownership documents before any action could be taken.

Reportedly, a said police officer claimed ownership of the land.

Residents oppose re-opening of sealed RMC point

Tensions also flared in Phase 5, where residents held a meeting against re-opening of the closed RMC point. They had earlier locked the area to prevent garbage dumping. Locals including Rupinder Singh (General Secretary of the local association), former councillor Ashok Jha and resident Joginder Kaur were at the meeting. They submitted a written request to the MLA, protesting against the establishment of the segregation point.

In case the point is re-opened, they claimed they will lock the gates again.