Panchkula Municipal Corporation Sets March Deadline for Legacy Waste Clearance
After missing two earlier deadlines, the Panchkula Municipal Corporation has now set the first week of March as its latest target to clear legacy waste at the Sector 23 dumping ground. This announcement comes amid growing pressure from residents and political urgency, with civic body elections approaching.
Commissioner's Directives and Site Inspection
During a recent site inspection, newly appointed commissioner Vinay Kumar issued clear instructions to officials. "I have directed that garbage at ground level must be cleared by the end of February," Kumar stated. "As per the current time frame, the entire site should be cleared by the first week of March."
Kumar flagged multiple deficiencies in the ongoing bioremediation work and instructed officials to fix them immediately. He warned that any negligence in addressing these issues would invite strict action from the municipal authorities.
Accelerated Operations and Political Context
Following the commissioner's visit, officials confirmed that the agency has accelerated operations at the site. Additional manpower and machinery are expected to be deployed to meet the new deadline, as the work has already seen inordinate delays.
The issue has gained significant political urgency with civic body elections approaching. The BJP-led Municipal Corporation's term ended last month, adding pressure to resolve the waste problem before polls are announced to avoid fresh confrontation with residents.
Longstanding Resident Concerns and Environmental Impact
Residents have long demanded a permanent solution to the dump, which has been a persistent environmental and public-health concern. Those living in nearby sectors have repeatedly complained of:
- Foul smell emanating from the dumping ground
- Increased mosquito breeding in the area
- Various health issues, especially during summer and monsoon seasons
The problem has triggered several protests over the years and has figured prominently in Municipal Corporation, Lok Sabha, and assembly elections, highlighting its significance in local politics.
Project History and Current Status
The Municipal Corporation had missed its December 25, 2025 deadline for clearing the remaining legacy waste, after having earlier failed to meet the August 31, 2025 target. The current effort represents the final phase of a larger waste management project.
Key details of the project include:
- The state government has approved the final phase to clear 1.7 lakh metric tonnes of garbage
- A tender worth Rs 11.5 crore was awarded for the work, which began in April 2025
- In the first phase, 3.72 lakh metric tonnes of waste were cleared over nearly three years
- The second phase was also given to the same contractor to ensure continuity and expedite the process
The continuation with the same contractor was specifically designed to maintain project momentum and address the pressing environmental and cleanliness concerns more efficiently. With the new March deadline now established, all eyes are on whether the Municipal Corporation can finally deliver on its promise to resolve this longstanding issue that has plagued Panchkula residents for years.
