The Corporation has finally decided to implement Rs 43-lakh  Zero-Waste Project for Fort Kochi.

Inaugurated in 2010, the authorities had met with severe criticism with   regard to the project as they were sitting on the the project even as garbage heaps were choking Fort Kochi.

However, the Corporation has invited tenders for the project aiming to  implement it as soon as possible. Tenders have been invited for computer, UPS, printer, tricycle, bin, chain saw, grass cutter, gum boots, rain coat, mask and other items needed to kickstart the project.

“We intend to implement the project within one month,” said Corporation health standing committee chairperson T K Ashraf.

Fort Kochi generates a huge amount of waste, including plastic. The zero-waste project is envisaged to settle the garbage menace in the area once and for all.

Implemented with the support of State Tourism Department and Kudumbasree workers, the project aims to segregate, collect and treat waste in the divisions 1 and 27 which includes the beach.

The authorities concerned said public participation will be ensured for the project along with the cooperation of health circles. The project will also explore possibilities to convert waste into a useful resource and thus add revenue for the Corporation. Domestic waste would be processed at houses using vermi-composting and aerobic composting, with the help of residents’ associations. Coconut shells would be collected and used for making handicraft and newspapers for making, said the authorities.

Thus, the authorities said rather than making a cosmetic surgery like many other waste management programs, the project promises to implant good sanitation habits directly into the minds of the people. Also, the scenic beauty of  a ‘Zero-Waste Fort Kochi’ will be beneficial for the city from a tourism point of view.

Town Planning committee chairman K J Sohan said the project will be model one as it involves decentralising waste management.

“This project is essentially about decentralising waste processing, Instead of waiting for the waste to be carried to huge treatment plants, people will realise that it can actually be processed at their houses. It may also turn out as a reply to the crisis at high level plants like Brahmapuram,” said K J Sohan.