Soon, deposit waste at Panchkula ATMs, make money

In first of its kind initiative, Panchkula municipal corporation (MC) has planned to install few automated teller machines (ATMs) through which people can earn money by depositing waste products, including plastic water bottles, wrappers and glass bottles.

Giving details, MC commissioner Rajesh Jogpal said, “The plan was proposed in view of the garbage disposal management in the city. It will be installed on trial-bases by June-end.”

“In the first phase, we will enrol the garbage lifters in the city. In the second phase, commercial units and household can register themselves,” Jogpal added.

As per the information, the process is in its initial stage. Sources said the rates for waste products will vary. A person will get Rs 1 for an empty water bottle and Rs 2 or Rs 3 each for a glass bottle and a beer cane. Apart from it, wrappers will be for 20 paise to 50 paise, depending on size.

At present, the civic body has been reviewing the plan with few vendors and firms for e-wallet facility.

“We have held several meeting with few vendors, who will be working on the project after it gets finalised. Besides, we have also collaborated with a private bank. The bank will analyse the concept of e-wallet for the machines,” said Jogpal.

Earlier, the MC had planned for cash dispensing facility in ATMs. As per the plan, people were to get money soon after they put the waste in the machines. Apart from it, few vendors suggested the provision for coupons, but it was later rejected.

“People usually through empty bottles in open. Garbage lifters collect these bottles and sell them at low prices. Now, these garbage lifters can enrol them with the MC and avail benefits of the same. The money will be transferred to their bank accounts through e-wallet,” Jogpal said.

“The plastic bottles will be compressed by the MC and the glass bottles will be sold for recycling,” Jogpal added.