Chandigarh, December 20: Reaffirming its steadfast commitment to the welfare of its sewermen through imparting training to operate latest technologies besides gathering valuable insights and data that will contribute to improving the lives and working conditions of sanitation workers.
City Mayor Sh. Anup Gupta inaugurated the first camp at the Sewer Maintenance Booth in Water Works, Sector-32, here today in the presence of the senior officers of MCC and prominent persons of the local area.
While briefing about the Namaste survey camps, the Mayor said that to ensure convenience for the workers, the camp has been strategically established at 12 Maintenance booth locations citywide, facilitating easy access and participation. This comprehensive approach aims to gather valuable insights and data that will contribute to improving the lives and working conditions of sanitation workers.
He said that the welfare of the sewermen is of utmost importance to the Corporation. By implementing advanced technologies and adopting the NAMASTE scheme, the MCC is ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being. The department is dedicated to providing a cleaner and healthier environment for all city residents.
Highlighting the significance of the NAMASTE scheme, Municipal Commissioner Ms. Anindita Mitra, IAS said that NAMASTE scheme is a testament to our commitment to improving sanitation conditions and promoting the welfare of sanitation workers in urban India. Through this initiative, the Govt. aims to create a comprehensive support system for Sewer Workers, offering them access to various benefits and skill-building opportunities.
She further added, “Since 2016, MC Chandigarh has taken significant steps to eliminate manual cleaning of sewer pipes, adhering to regulatory mandates. The implementation of cutting-edge technology, including Bandicoot sewer cleaning robots, de-silting grabbing machines, de-silting suction machines, sewer inspection cameras, power rodding machines, and sewer root-cutting equipment, aims to eradicate the need for manual waste cleaning and management, ensuring the safety and well-being of the sewermen.
She said that the MC Chandigarh remains committed to implementing innovative initiatives and adopting advanced technologies to improve the welfare and safety of its sewermen. The NAMASTE profiling/survey camp represents a significant step forward in this ongoing endeavor.
The Commissioner said that the NAMASTE scheme focuses on mechanizing cleaning operations of sewers and septic tanks. Its primary objectives include improving sanitation conditions and promoting the welfare of sanitation workers in urban India. The scheme is facilitated by the National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC) and aims to create a digital database of Sewer and Septic Tank Workers employed by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), providing them with support, skill-building opportunities, and access to social and financial benefits.
She further said that the NAMASTE scheme aims to provide entitlements, alternative livelihood support, and capital subsidies for sanitation-related projects under the Swachchhta Udyami Yojana (SUY) scheme. These initiatives are designed to reduce vulnerabilities and break the intergenerational cycle of sanitation work, ensuring the well-being and dignity of the workforce. The scheme also focuses on fostering behavioral change among stakeholders and promoting the demand for safe sanitation services.
