Parra locals raise concerns over DRS, want awareness

MAPUSA

Residents of Parra on Sunday raised concerns about the proposed Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) during the village gram sabha, prompting the panchayat to reiterate its demand for greater public awareness and clarity before the scheme is rolled out.

Responding to questions from villagers, Parra Sarpanch Daniel Lobo said the panchayat had already written to the State government highlighting the lack of awareness among the public and the concerns being expressed by residents regarding the scheme.

"People are still not fully informed about the Deposit Refund Scheme. We have communicated our concerns to the government in writing and stressed that the public's doubts and apprehensions must be addressed before the scheme is implemented," Lobo said.

He said the panchayat was awaiting clear directions from the authorities regarding the scheme.

"Let us get a proper order from the Director of Panchayats or the Block Development Officer. As far as I know, the government has not fully rolled out the scheme yet," he added.

Several villagers at the gram sabha expressed reservations about the DRS and sought clarification on how the scheme would operate, who would be responsible for its implementation and the impact it would have on residents and local businesses.

Lobo said awareness campaigns were still underway in various parts of the State and stressed that educating the public was essential before moving ahead with implementation.

"People need to understand how the scheme works, how it will benefit them and how it can contribute to better waste management. Only after adequate information is disseminated can people make an informed decision and support the initiative," he said.

The Deposit Refund Scheme, aimed at improving the collection and recycling of beverage containers through a refundable deposit mechanism, has faced resistance and scepticism from sections of the public since it was first proposed. Concerns have been raised over its practical implementation, collection infrastructure and its possible impact on consumers and small retailers.

Originally scheduled to be rolled out at the beginning of the year, the scheme was subsequently deferred by the State government.

The government has since been conducting awareness campaigns and stakeholder interactions before taking a final call on its implementation.