Rourkela: The Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) had in the past received the open defecation free certification (ODF). However, sources informed here Friday that MC has lost its ODF++status.
In 2018 RMC got the ODF+ and two years later the ODF++ certifications. Due to the joint efforts of the RMC and Rourkela Smart City Limited (RSCL) 65 public and community toilets were set up near bus stands, local markets, slums and other places. However, currently most of these are non-functional if one takes stock of situation.
During a sudden visit to Wards No 3, 6, 11 and 13, this correspondent could clearly observe why the ODF++ certification has been cancelled. These wards have a number of slums and the majority of the residents are daily wagers. The only way for them to attend to Nature’s call is in the open as most of the public toilets do not function properly.
Initially a number of self-help groups (SHGs) were entrusted with the responsibility to maintain the newly-constructed toilets. However, they have failed to do so. The toilets are not cleaned in a proper and regular manner. Most of the water taps in the toilets have disappeared and some of the toilets do not even have electricity. Hence the slum dwellers have no option but to defecate in the open.
Attempts to reach ADM Rourkela, who is also the Commissioner of RMC Ashutosh Kulkarni, failed as he did not receive calls and also did not respond to text messages.
This town has already slipped in the ‘Swachh Survekshan’ survey in 2023. Currently, this city is the fifth cleanest city in Odisha. Unless proper steps are taken soon, the city may slip further down the ‘cleanliness’ ladder.
PNN