In a significant lapse in civic responsibility, the Government Medical College and Hospital in Sector 32 (GMCH-32) stands out as the sole bulk waste generator in Chandigarh failing to comply with mandatory solid waste processing norms. This defiance persists despite previous penalties imposed by the Municipal Corporation.
Persistent Non-Compliance at GMCH-32
Out of a prepared list of 19 bulk waste generators (BWGs) in the city, 17 are now fully complying with regulations by ensuring their daily generated waste is processed scientifically. However, GMCH-32 remains an exception. The MC had previously imposed a penalty on the hospital authority and issued directives to follow the Solid Waste Management (SWM) rules, but no corrective action has been taken.
An MC official stated, "The authorities of both GMCH-32 and PU were informed about the proper processing of their waste. Following this, PU approached us, but GMCH-32 has yet to show any response." As per SWM rules, bulk generators must either process their garbage on-site or hire MC services for the same—a mandate GMCH-32 has ignored.
Panjab University Takes Steps Towards Compliance
In contrast, Panjab University (PU), which also lacked processing facilities, has initiated steps to rectify the situation. University officials recently held a meeting with the MC and expressed intent to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to hire the civic body's services for waste processing.
Both institutions have started the necessary process and paperwork. "In the coming days, the MC will start processing the university's waste based on the charges," the official added. While the final processing charges for PU are yet to be determined after detailed calculations, sources indicate they may align with the current rate of Rs 1,029 per tonne per day charged to the Sector 26 grain market.
Other Major Institutions On Board
The civic body's records show that other major institutions have already formalized agreements. The Government Multi Speciality Hospital (GMSH) in Sector 16, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI), and the Sector 26 grain market (Sabzi Mandi) have all signed MoUs with the MC. Their waste is now being processed by the corporation on a payment basis.
This collective action highlights a growing adherence to SWM rules among large establishments in the city, making GMCH-32's ongoing non-compliance increasingly conspicuous. The MC's push for accountability underscores the critical importance of proper waste management for public health and urban cleanliness.
