Sambalpur: SMC’s New Waste Management and Hygiene Measures; Paper Cup Ban From 1st April

Sambalpur: From April 1, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) will ban the use of paper cups in its area. Small vendors who use paper cups for tea or other items are advised to switch to glass, clay, or steel cups within five months. SMC Commissioner Vedabhusan explained that paper cups are unsuitable for drinking due to health and waste management concerns, which led to this decision.

Mandatory Cleanliness Standards

In a recent press conference, the Commissioner shared new cleanliness rules for the city. Residential and commercial establishments must maintain separate bins for wet and dry waste and ensure a clean area within five meters of their premises. People must use designated bins instead of dumping waste randomly, and daily cleaning vehicles will collect the waste.

If any business fails to keep two separate bins, a fine of Rs. 500 will be imposed. Additionally, if the five-meter area is not clean, a Rs. 1,000 fine will apply. Some areas were already following this system, with improved cleanliness results. Based on this success, SMC is implementing the rule across more wards.

Guidelines for Waste Bins

People must use only specific types of bins or buckets; SMC prohibits using thermocol boxes or cardboard cartons for waste disposal. SMC will provide bins to businesses that do not have them, collecting the fine to cover the cost.

Enforcement Team for Cleanliness

SMC has strengthened its enforcement team to maintain cleanliness. The team now includes 13 members, with 8 retired army personnel recently joining. They wear unique uniforms and are expected to play a key role in maintaining the city’s hygiene.

Anti-Encroachment and Drainage Management

SMC has observed significant encroachments on the city’s drainage system, especially from Ainthapali to Kacheri Chowk and from Khetrajpur to Dhanupali Chowk. Although a new drain has been constructed along one side, any illegal structures will be immediately removed.

Parking Management

SMC is working on structured parking solutions for the city. All shop owners must create parking spaces for their staff vehicles, and SMC has issued tenders for parking facilities under the overbridge. Discussions are ongoing regarding parking fees.

The Deputy Commissioner, Shubhdeep Mahanti, and Enforcement Officer, Sushant Sahu, also attended the press conference.