J&K Forest Deptt Issues 10-Point SOP for Solid Waste ManagementSrinagar- In a major step towards protecting ecologically sensitive tourist destinations, the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has issued a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the management of solid waste in and around tourist destinations falling within or adjoining Reserve Forests. ADVERTISEMENTAccording to the SOP, all major tourist destinations will have destination-specific master plans incorporating carrying-capacity assessments to regulate tourist inflow and ensure that ecological limits are not exceeded. PREPARE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLANSADVERTISEMENTAuthorities have also been directed to prepare comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plans covering waste generation, segregation, collection, transportation, processing and scientific disposal. INSTALL SEPARATE WASTE BINSTo strengthen waste management infrastructure, the department has directed installation of separate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste bins at parking areas, viewpoints, trekking routes, camping sites and other public places. The SOP also allows BMCs, wherever permissible under law, to levy sanitation or user charges from waste generators, with the revenue to be utilised exclusively for sanitation, waste management and environmental conservation.