Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Ananth Dwivedi chaired a review meeting on 19 October to assess implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, across urban and rural areas of the district. The meeting examined measures aimed at improving waste collection, disposal and compliance with prescribed sanitation standards.

Officials held detailed discussions on mandatory segregation at source, scientific collection and disposal, prevention of open dumping and accountability among bulk waste generators. The review also covered the polluter-pays principle, user charges, enforcement mechanisms, digital monitoring and transparent reporting of waste management activities.

The deputy commissioner stressed the importance of four-way segregation at source and directed the Additional District Development Commissioner to closely monitor implementation on the ground. He instructed the concerned departments to intensify Information, Education and Communication activities to raise public awareness about waste segregation, responsible disposal and compliance with the rules.

The administration was also directed to strengthen enforcement across all relevant departments and ensure sustained supervision of sanitation measures. The deputy commissioner emphasised that scientific waste management would require consistent implementation, effective monitoring and public participation in both urban and rural areas.

He called on officers to ensure strict adherence to the rules at every level and to address practices that undermine cleanliness and public health. The directions are intended to improve compliance, prevent unauthorised dumping and support cleaner surroundings across Udhampur district through coordinated administrative action and continued community awareness.