ഹരിതകര്‍മ്മസേന

 

 

Haritha Karma Sena (HKS)

Haritha Karma Sena (HKS) is a community-based waste management workforce operating under Local Self-Government Institutions (LSGIs) in Kerala. It is an important part of the state's solid waste management system and is responsible for collecting and managing non-biodegradable (dry) waste from households, commercial establishments, and institutions.

Objectives

  • Ensure scientific management of non-biodegradable waste.
  • Promote waste segregation at the source.
  • Reduce environmental pollution caused by plastic and other dry waste.
  • Improve cleanliness and public health.
  • Generate sustainable livelihood opportunities, especially for women.

Key Responsibilities

  • Door-to-door collection of non-biodegradable waste.
  • Encourage households and institutions to segregate waste at the source.
  • Transport collected waste to Resource Recovery Facilities (RRFs) or authorized recycling units.
  • Conduct public awareness campaigns on waste management and sanitation.
  • Collect user fees for waste collection services.
  • Support Local Self-Government Institutions in implementing effective solid waste management.

Types of Waste Collected

  • Plastic bottles and containers
  • Plastic bags and packaging materials
  • Paper and cardboard
  • Glass bottles
  • Metal cans and scrap
  • Approved e-waste and other recyclable dry waste

Benefits

  • Reduces waste accumulation in public places.
  • Increases recycling and resource recovery.
  • Protects the environment from pollution.
  • Improves sanitation and public health.
  • Creates employment and income opportunities for women.
  • Contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable Kerala.

Role of Citizens

  • Segregate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste at the source.
  • Hand over non-biodegradable waste to Haritha Karma Sena members as scheduled.
  • Pay the prescribed user fee promptly.
  • Avoid littering and support responsible waste management practices.

Conclusion

Haritha Karma Sena plays a vital role in Kerala's decentralized solid waste management system. By promoting source segregation, regular waste collection, recycling, and community participation, HKS helps create cleaner neighborhoods, protects the environment, and supports sustainable development.