Chandigarh: Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini while chairing a key meeting with the officers of the Urban Local Bodies Department here today directed them to identify suitable locations for installing water harvesting systems across the state. He said that waterlogging issues arise at several places during the rainy season, and therefore, concrete arrangements should be made in advance to address the problem.
During the meeting, he reviewed in detail the pre-monsoon preparations, including drain cleaning, water drainage systems, and sanitation arrangements, and issued necessary directions to the concerned officers. He directed that areas facing drainage issues should be identified and alternative solutions should be adopted. He particularly emphasized exploring the option of installing water harvesting systems at such locations to enable rainwater conservation and significantly reduce waterlogging problems.
The Chief Minister further directed the officers to prepare comprehensive and updated data related to water harvesting in the state. This should include details of locations where such systems are already installed, how many are functioning properly, and where new installations are required. He said that these systems should be effectively implemented across all government departments, and where these systems have not yet been installed, it should be set up on a priority basis, especially in waterlogging-prone areas.
The Chief Minister also held detailed discussions on further improving the sanitation system in the state. The officers apprised the Chief Minister that modern technology, particularly implementing a radio frequency identification (RFID)-based system for door-to-door garbage collection, is being used to strengthen sanitation management, leading to improved monitoring and transparency. Continuous efforts are being made in this direction.
Cameras to be installed for Monitoring Sweeping Machines
The Chief Minister also reviewed the GPS-based waste collection system and directed officials to ensure its effective monitoring. The officers informed that RFID technology is being used in this system to make the waste collection process more organized and transparent.
Providing details of steps taken to strengthen monitoring of sweeping machines, officials stated that four cameras will be installed on each machine—one facing forward, one on top, one below, and one at the rear. It was further stated that if the sensor installed underneath the machine is found to be non-functional during cleaning operations, payment to the concerned agency will not be made.
Additionally, agencies will now be required to submit video footage of their work along with their monthly bills for verification, if required. A penalty provision of ₹1,250 per hour has also been introduced to ensure accountability of agencies and prevent negligence in work.
Focus on Welfare of Safai Karmcharis
The Chief Minister also emphasized the welfare of Safai Karmcharis and directed that they be provided with uniforms, shoes, and other essential safety equipment. He said that special attention should be given to the safety and convenience of Safai Karmcharis so that they can perform their duties effectively. Notably, he has directed the implementation of a uniform dress code for Safai Karmcharis across Haryana.
The meeting also discussed sanitation, drainage, and water availability in major cities like Gurugram and Faridabad. The Chief Minister directed that special attention be given to these urban areas to ensure that the public does not face any inconvenience.
Chief Secretary, Anurag Rastogi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Arun Gupta, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Saket Kumar, Commissioner and Secretary, Urban Local Bodies Department, Ashok Kumar Meena, Director, Mukul Kumar, along with other departmental officers also attended the meeting.
