In recent news, attention has been drawn towards the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0). Designed to create ‘Garbage Free Cities’, this mission has introduced the innovative ‘National Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) Framework. This new strategy aims to bolster the ongoing social movement for cleaner and waste-free urban landscapes across India.
National Behaviour Change Communication Framework: An Overview
This BCC Framework is intended to provide guiding principles for state and city authorities to instigate large-scale multi-media campaigns. Coupled with intensive interpersonal communication drives, the initiative aims to educate and engage the populace regarding responsible waste management. Key areas under the spotlight include segregation of waste at source, collection, transportation, processing of waste, managing plastic pollution, and addressing the problem of legacy dumpsites.
Say Hello to SBM-U 2.0
SBM-U 2.0 was announced during the fiscal budget of 2021-22 as a continuation of its first phase. Launched on 1st October 2021, its goal is transforming Indian cities into garbage-free zones over the next five years. The government is paying particular attention to the safe containment, transportation, and disposal of fecal sludge and septage from toilets, with an estimated budget of Rs.1.41 lakh crore spread over five years from 2021 to 2026.
The mission’s predecessor, SBM-U’s first phase, was launched on 2nd October 2014. It aimed at making urban India Open Defecation Free (ODF) and achieving 100% scientific management of municipal solid waste. The project until October 2019.
SBM-U 2.0: Aims and Objectives
The focal points of SBM-U 2.0 include effective waste source segregation, reduction in single-use plastic usage, and controlling air pollution. This is to be achieved by managing waste from construction and demolition activities, and bioremediating all legacy dump sites. A significantly vital aspect of the mission is treating all wastewater to an acceptable level before discharging into water bodies, with a strong preference for maximum reuse.
Anticipated Outcomes of the Mission
As per the government’s expectations, all statutory towns will attain ODF+ certification, focusing on maintaining water hygiene in toilets. In towns with less than one lakh population, the aim is to achieve ODF++ certification with emphasis on sludge and septage management in toilets.
Moreover, 50% of all statutory towns with a population below one lakh aspire to attain Water+ certification. This certification aims at sustaining toilets by treating and reusing water. A minimum of a 3-star Garbage Free rating as per MoHUA’s Star Rating Protocol for Garbage Free cities will be pursued by all statutory towns. Finally, bioremediation of all legacy dumpsites is envisaged for every town under the mission.
References
Source: PIB