Committee on Environment Reviews Inputs on FSSM and Sustainable Sanitation Policy
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s Committee on Environment today emphasized the urgent need to establish a strong and effective sanitation system in the rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
The recommendation came during a meeting held at the Legislative Assembly Complex in Srinagar, chaired by Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami. The session was attended by members including Peerzada Mohammad Sayed, Dr. Sajjad Shafi, Peerzada Feroze Ahmad, Khurshied Ahmad, Mushtaq Guroo, Irshad Rasool Kar, and Darshan Kumar.
The Committee carefully reviewed members’ inputs and suggestions concerning the Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) Policy and the Sustainable Sanitation Policy tailored for rural J&K.
Chairman Tarigami stressed the importance of intensive capacity building and extensive awareness campaigns under the Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) framework throughout rural areas, urging active public participation to ensure effective outcomes.
He also announced that the Committee would forward its recommendations to the government for drafting and approving the final sanitation policy.
Further, the Chairman directed relevant authorities to submit detailed reports on ongoing mining activities and plantation efforts in affected regions.
Highlighting sustainable sanitation and cleanliness, the Committee underscored the need for daily door-to-door garbage collection, waste segregation, proper disposal practices, management of solid and liquid waste, processing of biodegradable waste, and scientifically sound treatment of plastic waste generated daily.
It was decided that district-level meetings and seminars would be organized to promote the significance of implementing sanitation mechanisms.
The Committee also resolved to conduct site inspections of infrastructure projects and facilities to reinforce environmental safeguards.
Acknowledging the Committee’s vital role in protecting Jammu and Kashmir’s delicate environment, the Chairman instructed the concerned department to engage experts and develop an annual action plan for rural sanitation.
