The Municipal Corporation (MC) has rolled out a cash incentive scheme for its staff to rid the twin cities of Chandigarh and Mohali of polythene. Under the initiative, employees who collect a specified amount of polythene waste will be rewarded with cash prizes.
Incentive Structure
The MC has set a target for each sanitation worker to collect at least 5 kilograms of polythene waste per month. Those meeting the target will receive a cash incentive of Rs 500. For every additional kilogram collected, an extra Rs 100 will be given.
Implementation Strategy
The scheme is part of a broader drive to enforce the ban on single-use plastics in the region. MC officials have directed field staff to intensify door-to-door collection and awareness campaigns. The collected polythene will be sent to recycling units.
Residents are also being encouraged to segregate polythene waste at source. The MC plans to involve resident welfare associations and market committees in the effort.
Expected Impact
The initiative is expected to significantly reduce polythene litter in public spaces and drainage systems. The MC aims to collect over 1,000 kilograms of polythene waste in the first month alone.
Officials believe that the cash incentive model will motivate staff and lead to a cleaner environment. The scheme will be reviewed after three months based on its effectiveness.
