State doubles recyclable collection

Palakkad: Kerala has set a new record in recyclable waste collection, thanks to the efforts of the Haritha Karma Sena, said minister for local self-govt MB Rajesh. Speaking at a function in Palakkad, he praised the outfit's role in preventing waste from being dumped on roads and into water bodies.

The minister said that in 2024–25, the state collected 66,166 tonnes of recyclable waste—more than double the 30,000 tonnes collected in the previous year. He credited this achievement to increased public participation and improved infrastructure under the ‘Waste-Free New Kerala' initiative.

Currently, Kerala has 1,030 material collection facilities (MCFs). Following the Brahmapuram fire incident, the number of mini MCFs rose significantly—from 7,422 to 19,721—ensuring at least one mini MCF in every ward, with some wards hosting more than one.

Rajesh stressed that MCFs and mini MCFs collect reusable materials and should not be misunderstood as waste storage points. "These centres must be made easily accessible to the public. They pose no inconvenience, and opposing them amounts to opposing social progress," the minister said. TNN