Fri Jul 18 14:53:29 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:
**Summary:**
Despite implementing GPS tracking, waste collectors contracted by the Thiruvananthapuram city Corporation are still illegally dumping biodegradable waste in neighboring panchayats and municipalities. One contractor was arrested for dumping waste in Aruvikkara, leading to the termination of his contract. Corporation officials acknowledge the possibility of collectors circumventing the GPS system or taking advantage of processing plant malfunctions to avoid proper disposal. The city generates between 15 and 25 tonnes of biodegradable waste daily, some of which is being illegally dumped in forests under the false pretense of being transported to pig farms.
**News Article:**
**Thiruvananthapuram Waste Collectors Evade GPS, Dump Trash in Neighboring Areas**
*Thiruvananthapuram, July 18, 2025* – Despite the Thiruvananthapuram city Corporation’s efforts to monitor waste disposal through GPS tracking, some contracted waste collectors are still illegally dumping biodegradable waste in adjacent panchayats and municipalities, raising concerns about environmental pollution and public health.
Earlier this week, the Aruvikkara police arrested a contractor hired by the Corporation for allegedly dumping waste in the Aruvikkara area. The vehicle used in the illegal act was seized, and the Corporation has since terminated the contractor’s contract. However, authorities are still investigating the origin of the dumped waste, unsure if it was collected within the city or from other sources.
Corporation officials acknowledge that the GPS tracking system isn’t foolproof. “All of the vehicles are equipped with GPS. So, if a particular amount of waste is collected from here, we can ensure that as much amount reaches the processing centres. However, there are possibilities of over-riding this system using vehicles without GPS. ”
Contributing factors might be collectors trying to save on fuel costs or disruptions at processing plants. “Also, one of the processing plants had functional issues last week. Some collectors who do not have adequate storage facilities for a couple of days might resort to dumping,” said an official.
The city generates approximately 15 tonnes of biodegradable waste daily, increasing to 25 tonnes during festivals and events. Recent incidents include the arrest of two individuals attempting to illegally dump waste in a forest area, falsely claiming it was destined for pig farms.
The Corporation is investigating further to identify and address these illegal dumping practices, as well as improve the effectiveness of its waste management systems.
First Piper 