'We are still sweeping by hand': Visit to Singapore amazes Karnataka's purakarmikas

A trip to Singapore has had a shocking effect on Pourakarmikas from Karnataka's Sirsi They said that the advanced waste management and water treatment systems left them very impressed. “We are still sweeping by hand holding brooms but in the entire Singapore not a speck of dust is seen," they said

“We are still sweeping by hand holding brooms but in the entire Singapore not a speck of dust is seen. Their waste management technology is thrilling. We never imagined we would see such a fine city in our lives,” Such are the words of four pourakarmikas from Sirsi, who were a part of a 38-member State delegation to Singapore for four days.

The Social Welfare Department had organised a trip to Singapore to introduce the Pourakarmikas to the waste management systems of one of the world’s cleanest cities. Masti Rama Bhangi, Annappa Shankara Raja, Chandrakantha Gude Angadi, Dinesh Harijana from Sirsi shared their experiences of the trip.

The officials had conducted an orientation workshop for the Pourakarmikas before they left India. The four from Sirsi were more excited about going by flight. Only when they stepped into Singapore did they realise that they had a lot to learn in the world, they said.

The delegation consisted of 38 members who left on July 2. Two officials from the department accompanied them.  Each was given 100 dollars before leaving.  They were shown videos of Singapore. At Singapore the delegation travelled with their counterparts and visited waste management units.  

Chandrakantha Gude Angadi said he was most impressed by the absence of stink in the entire city.  They were also impressed by the waste segregation in Singapore. The sewage system, mechanisation of waste collection, rainwater harvesting, clean and good roads were all appreciated by the delegates.

The fact that the citizens follow cleanliness and are scared of fine on the spot was appreciated by the team. The four took selfies in front of buildings as well.