Mumbai : In Kerala, the clean-up process is in full swing in those areas where flood waters have receded. In Thrissur, the Border Security Force (BSF) joined residents and business in their clean-up drive, along with political parties and self-help groups.
A group of 40 BSF personnel were helping clear road blocks, muck and debris from homes and businesses. “In Chalakudy, we are helping with sanitising in areas where the flood water has receded. We are doing whatever we can,” stated a BSF personnel.
These officers also extended help during the flood by rescuing residents. “Our services were needed urgently then and we came forward. For cleaning and sanitising, we offered help. However, we do not have the required machinery to clear carcasses.”
At present, businesses are dumping waste on streets, which is being picked up by municipal vehicles. P K Sukumaran, president, Mala Panchayat, said, “Homes and businesses in the area have been affected. They are clearing up and dumping debris outside. This will be disposed by municipal authorities.”
Municipalities have already started to pick up debris and dispose of it appropriately. But there is so much debris that it will take a while before it can be attended to, stated P M Sreedharan, chairman of the welfare standing committee, Chalakudy Municipality. He added, “The debris is segregated into compostable and other waste. Compostable waste will be put in deep pits.” In case of carcasses, they will be buried in pits that are six feet deep. “We are following the directive of the state government,” he said, adding sanitising work is in progress to avert adverse impact on public health.