The Hindu 08.09.2014
Plan to regulate septic tank lorries
The City Corporation, which continues to receive
complaints on poor cleaning and disposal of sewer by septic tank
lorries, has made it compulsory for those operating sewer lorries to
obtain licence and permission.
Imposition of hefty fine and confiscation of lorries without permits have been planned to regulate private sewer tank operators.
The decision was taken at a meeting attended by health authorities of the civic body a few days ago.
V.P.
Thandapani, Commissioner, who presided over the meeting, said that
though the Underground Drainage system was in force, just 35 per cent of
the households have been connected to the network. Remaining households
were still using the septic tank method for disposing of domestic and
human waste. The residents invariably have to solicit the service of
private sewer operators to clean the tanks. However, complaints have
been received that many of the sewer tank lorries dump the domestic
waste on open lands inside or outside the Corporation limit. This
affects the environment. Hence, it had been decided to regulate them.
Anyone engaged in the business of removing and disposing of domestic
waste from septic tanks, holding tanks, or other similar sewage
treatment or disposal facilities must obtain a septic tank pumping
contractor licence.
Mr. Thandapani added that licence-holders should pay Rs.2,000 a year as a fee.