Himachal Pradesh to Establish Dedicated ‘Environmental Cell’ for Urban Waste Management.

Shimla:

In a strategic move to improve urban waste management, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the creation of a dedicated ‘Environmental Cell’ within the Department of Urban Development. This initiative aims to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization on solid and liquid waste management across the state’s urban centers.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the urgency of the measure, noting that the state’s 60 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)—comprising five Municipal Corporations, 29 Municipal Councils, and 26 Nagar Panchayats—are struggling to meet the rising demands for municipal services. “Solid and Liquid Waste Management is the biggest challenge being faced by the urban local bodies today. Therefore, there will be a dedicated cell to meet these challenges, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable urban environments across Himachal Pradesh,” Sukhu stated.

The newly formed Environmental Cell will address the current deficiency in technical manpower within the Urban Development Department, which has been managing waste management tasks through the project branch of the Directorate of Urban Development. The establishment of this cell is expected to enhance the department’s capability to implement effective waste management strategies.

Chief Minister Sukhu underscored the importance of proper waste disposal, explaining that inadequate management can adversely affect public health, the environment, and overall quality of life. “Effective waste management practices are essential not only to prevent the spread of diseases and protect drinking water but also to maintain air quality and safeguard the overall well-being of the community,” he added.