NAGAR NIGAM Heath Officer Dr P K Singh is probably the happiest person these days. The reason being successful implementation of one of major tasks of night cleaning on the city roads entrusted to him by the NN administrator. He shares his views with Pankaj Mishra.
How do you evaluate your night cleaning programme in the city ?
I must say it is a big success. The administrator Amrit Abhijat wanted to bring drastic changes in the cleaning system in the city so night cleaning was one of the important part of the programme. Citizens have also approved it widely. We are receiving a number of appreciation letters from them.
Is there any major hurdle in getting it implemented completely ?
Of course, all the 60 safai karmcharis appointed for the task have been demanding enhancement in their remuneration. At present they are being paid Rs 792 for four hours' work but they are pressurising to raise it a minimum RS 1200. We have invited tenders in this regard which will be opened on April 13.
What is about the appointment of regular safai workers at NN as announced by the State Government two years back?
According to the recent State Government order there shall be no recruitment of regular staff at NN. Instead only contractual staff would do the job. We have only 1800 regular safai staff against the existing posts of 3600. As a result we have planned to hand over safai work of Teliarganj and Naini wards to private agencies.
What is about the appointment of regular safai workers at NN as announced by the State Government two years back?
According to the recent State Government order there shall be no recruitment of regular staff at NN. Instead only contractual staff would do the job. We have only 1800 regular safai staff against the existing posts of 3600. As a result we have planned to hand over safai work of Teliarganj and Naini wards to private agencies.
What would happen to regular staff working in these wards?
Undoubtedly it is a major problem. However, staff of these two wards would be adjusted in other wards soon.
What would be the role of your department in Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission ?
My department has to play a major role that is why I have submitted detailed proposals to the committee concerned. Nearly 50 per cent of total budget is likely to be spent on solid waste management which is a challenge for us. New trucks, containers and garbage dumping ground is to be arranged in the city.
Any new plan?
Yes after having successfully implemented the night cleaning on six roads now we have finalized ten other roads for the same purpose. Apart from this NN will launch a drive against open sale of eatables at shops in the wake of summer season.