Panchkula, May 4 -- Despite the municipal corporation (MC) allocating over Rs.46 crore for waste management contracts during the outgoing term, the issue of waste disposal remains a central plank in political manifestos ahead of the May 10 civic elections. After a sharp decline in national cleanliness rankings and a stagnant partnership with the Chandigarh MC, the civic body appears unable to contain the crisis, with garbage heaps continuing to mar several sectors.

In its manifesto, the BJP has committed to spending approximately Rs.100 crore on door-to-door lifting and scientific disposal, effectively promising to double the current expenditure. The Congress has similarly pledged to overhaul the system, yet past promises raise concerns ...