Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Karkala, Jul 8: Udupi has earned the distinction of becoming Karnataka’s first Open Defecation Free Plus (ODF Plus) model district, as declared by the department of rural drinking water and sanitation. The recognition comes in light of Udupi’s exemplary performance in cleanliness, solid and liquid waste management, and sustainable sanitation practices.
The district achieved this feat by placing strong emphasis on waste segregation at the household level, setting up compost units, and establishing plastic waste recycling centres. These efforts have significantly contributed to improved waste management and public hygiene across the district.
Under Phase-2 of the Central Government’s Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen), areas that not only maintain ODF status but also demonstrate effective solid and liquid waste management are recognised as ODF Plus models. The concept extends beyond toilet construction to include scientific disposal and reuse of wastewater, solid, and plastic waste.
Karkala and Hebri taluks had already been declared ODF Plus model taluks. Both taluks had successfully implemented robust waste management systems. The Material Recovery Facility (MRF) Centre at Nitte gram panchayat has served as a role model in effective waste handling.
Initially, all 246 villages in the district achieved ODF status, with every household having access to toilets. Gradual improvements in door-to-door waste collection and wastewater drainage under the ODF Plus framework led all gram panchayats in the district to self-declare ODF Plus status. After thorough verification, the department of rural drinking water and sanitation officially recognized Udupi as a model district.
While the achievement is commendable, sustaining ODF Plus status and introducing further improvements remains a challenge. Integration of newer technologies in waste management, increased public cooperation, and embedding cleanliness as part of daily lifestyle are essential.
"There are initiatives to produce useful products from waste – such as pipes, bio-diesel, and bio-CNG. This also presents opportunities to generate higher income for women self-help groups involved in the SLRM (Solid and Liquid Resource Management) programme," said Prateek Bayal, CEO of Udupi zilla panchayat.