Chennai's repeated floods indicate that stop-gap arrangements like placing pumps and drains on different streets are inadequate. 'We need different departments to coordinate and work as a team', says S.Saroja, CAG, for long-term solutions.
Speaking on TN government's Meendum Manjappai initiative, S.Saroja, CAG explains that the focus should be on banning production of items listed in the Single Use Plastic ban, instead of merely placing the onus on consumers.
Speaking at the 'Plastic Emergency' event in Chennai, S.Saroja, CAG said that the single use plastic ban in Tamilnadu was not effectively implemented.
Constant and vigilant enforcement is crucial in keeping pavements clear of encroachments especially of vehicles & shops extending their stores on to the pavements. Hawkers & vendors must be given space as per the National Vendors Act, says Sumana Narayanan of CAG.
S Saroja from CAG stressed the need for simple, effective, front of pack warning labels on packed foods to help consumers make informed choices, in light of India's non-communicable disease crisis, at a webinar organised by CUTS International
Playgrounds, parks and such public spaces are crucial for the health and well-being of citizens. The pandemic has just underscored their importance, notes Sumana Narayanan of CAG. As Madras turns 382 this August, it is time the city ensures that parks and playgrounds abound and that they are well-maintained and accessible to all.
'Greater Chennai Corporation is set to enforce the single-use plastic ban starting next week. CAG's study on the effectiveness of the two year old ban indicates that banned plastic items remain prevalent. Vamsi Kapilavai, CAG, explains that an ecosystem of alternatives needs to be established for the ban to be effective'.
K. Vishnu Mohan Rao, CAG, commenting on the government's plans to revise the power tariff, said this would be a fair step but one that should be accompanied by 'targeted subsidies'
K. Vishnu Mohan Rao, CAG, commenting on the government's plans to revise the power tariff, said this would be a fair step but one that should be accompanied by 'targeted subsidies'
A roundtable of consumer organisations was organised to consider proposed amendments to the Consumer Protection (E-Com)rules) 2020. S. Saroja (from CAG) participated, wanting emphasis in amendments to look at factors like sustainable consumption, packaging and carbon footprints.