The Begining

Pasan Gaminda
14/08/2012
1st post

 It was the 2nd day of our community medicine clerkship programme and on that day we had an unforgettable experience as we went to see Karadiyana garbage dumping site.

 Our guide explained about their usual procedures on waste disposal.First of all the vehicles are weighed.Both on entering the site and after unloading the waste.So they can get an idea about the waste load.There was a weighing bridge and the whole system is computerized.They said that they are receiving more than 100 tons of waste every day.

In spite of the mountains of waste,there were very few flies and mosquitoes and no unpleasant odor.The site is maintained in a Eco-friendly manner and I am very glad to say that this place is not the classic example that comes to our minds when we talk about an garbage dumping site.

But,still there is a problem.The site is situated near the Bolgoda lake.So water pollution,especially at the rainy season will be a major issue.

Many protective measures are taken to minimize the hazards to the workers.They are supplied with boots,gloves,rain coats.nose pads and helmets.Almost every worker wears boots,gloves and helmets while working.
Each worker has a separate file regarding healthcare issues.Data on vaccination programmes against tetanus,typhoid,JE,hepatitis B and screening programmes on filariasis,tubeculosis,malaria and foot care is entered in those files.
The most appreciable fact I noted at this site is that they are very much concerned about the protection of the workers.

There are mosquito and fly control programmes in surrounding Karadiyana and Werahara areas using Pesguard and BTI.Those are held on thursdays and fridays.

There are plans to establish power plants and bio gas pits at this site.

The employees are hardworking.They work seven days of the week throughout the year.I think authorities should concern more about these projects because they are doing a great service to the community by helping to keep our surroundings free of garbage.