JAMMU: The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) on Saturday launched a Coconut Shredding Unit at Bhagwati Nagar as part of its ongoing efforts under the Swachh Bharat Mission to strengthen scientific waste management and improve urban sanitation.
The facility was inaugurated by JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav.
The initiative seeks to address a recurring problem during the monsoon season, when discarded coconut shells clog drains and sewer networks, leading to waterlogging and the overflow of wastewater onto roads. Municipal officials said empty coconut shells are often thrown on roadsides, into garbage bins or directly into drains after consumption, creating sanitation and environmental concerns.
Under the new system, JMC will collect discarded coconut shells directly from registered vendors across the city and transport them to the Bhagwati Nagar facility for scientific processing. The shredded shells will be converted into cocopeat, an eco-friendly growing medium widely used in horticulture, landscaping and composting.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Devansh Yadav said all coconut vendors in Jammu would be provided with special JMC identification stickers to facilitate the regular collection of coconut shells by municipal vehicles.
He said the initiative would help prevent drain blockages and reduce waterlogging during the rainy season while converting waste into a useful resource, in line with JMC’s commitment to sustainable and circular waste management.
The Commissioner appealed to vendors and citizens to dispose of coconut shells responsibly and cooperate with the municipal collection system to keep the city clean and free from drainage obstructions.
Among those present at the inauguration were Joint Commissioner (Health and Sanitation) Abdul Sattar, Health Officer Dr. Shahid Hussain, Assistant Floriculture Officer Dr. Rabia Khan, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon Dr. Divya Sharma, Executive Engineer (Mechanical Division) Talat Mahmood Khan, and other officers and officials of the Jammu Municipal Corporation.
