KSPCB seeks SOP for safe and scientific disposal of cigarette and bidi butts

The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be proposed by a committee that will include representatives of stakeholders, including from the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA)

Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has urged the Tobacco Control Cell and Department of Health and Family Welfare to set up a committee to assist the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) in formulating a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for safe and scientific disposal of cigarette and bidi butts.

KSPCB member secretary H.C. Girish, who presided over a meeting in March to discuss implementation of guidelines for disposal of cigarette and bidi butts in Karnataka, said the committee should comprise various stakeholders, including DMA representatives.

The participants emphasised the need for a proper disposal system, monitored by the local body, after collection of discarded cigarette and bidi butts.

The meeting was held in the wake of the Central Pollution Control Board coming up with guidelines for disposal of cigarette and bidi butts.

Representatives of the Tobacco Control Cell pointed out that their squads book cases for violation of the ban on smoking in public, but cigarette and bidi butts are discarded near bakeries, restaurants, and petty shops. There was no disposal system for the same.

According to an environmental consultant, K.H. Sunil, who participated in the meeting, discarded cigarette and bidi butts were entering the sewage disposal system, and affecting the performance of Sewage Treatment Plants.

Sources in the Tobacco Control Cell told The Hindu that the process of formulating the SOP is under way. The SOP is expected to be submitted to the KSPCB in 15 days.