Editor,
Every month, the capital’s residents are handed a yellow receipt with an IMC sticker (not even sure if it’s authentic) and a demand for Rs 100 as fee, regardless of the size of the household or the amount of waste generated.
This system is demonstrably inequitable. The residents are mostly students who come and rent these apartments for studying. Such individuals living alone, who often produce minimal waste, are forced to pay the same as large families with multiple members, ie, 6/10 members. This can be financially burdensome, especially considering the annual cost in our building alone.
For instance we have 32 flats so 32x100x12 = 38,400 per year.
To address this disparity, I propose a tiered fee structure based on household size: Single occupant: Rs 40-Rs 50 per month, and small households: Up to Rs 80 per month (gradually increasing based on size).
This system would ensure a fairer distribution of costs and reflect the actual amount of waste generated.
The service itself is deeply unsatisfactory. The garbage truck’s erratic schedule, appearing once in a blue moon, creates unsanitary conditions with overflowing bins. This inconsistency is unacceptable, especially considering our diligent monthly payments.
Their website, particularly the solid waste management section at https://www.imc.arunachal.gov.in/ needs immediate attention. A non-functional website is a slap in the face of the residents who are actively seeking solutions.
Many locals likely aren’t even aware of this online grievance redressal system. These digital initiatives must be functional and accessible to all residents.
No doubt, that’s why Itanagar had the shameful ranking as the 431st dirtiest city out of 446 in the 2023 Swachh Survekshan. Despite this embarrassing performance report, there seems to be no sense of urgency or accountability. The same old problems persist.
I implore the authorities to take immediate action to rectify this situation. A fair fee structure, consistent garbage collection, and accountability and investment in infrastructure are essential for a clean and healthy city.
We deserve better. We demand justice.
An aggrieved citizen of capital