Sambalpur, Feb. 8: The municipal corporation here has decided to install global positioning system (GPS) devices on garbage-lifting vehicles so that the authorities are able to effectively monitor their movements in the city.

"The corporation has installed GPS devices on two vehicles on a trial basis. Other vehicles will also be equipped with the device shortly. This will help streamline the door-to-door garbage collection in the area," said health officer of Sambalpur Municipal Corporation Mahendra Nanda.

The garbage collection facility began in some areas of the city such as Budharaja, Ainthapali, Subham Colony, Anguliapara, Jagannath colony, Dhanupali, Mahabirpara, Sakhipara and Badbazar on June 1 last year.

The corporation has also procured 10 trolley-laden vehicles for this purpose. The vehicles collect the garbage and then take them to the collection point near Durgapali for disposal.

The civic body is now planning to expand the service and cover households of Sambalpur, Burla and Hirakud besides all the commercial establishments under its area. It has also decided to engage 40 more vehicles for this purpose. The GPS devices will be installed on all the vehicles.

The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation, consisting of Sambalpur, Burla and Hirakud. generates about 100 tonnes of municipal solid waste everyday.

"We will be able to know whether the vehicles follow their set routes with the help of the GPS. We will also be able to know for sure if they dispose of the garbage in the dumping yard," said Nanda, adding that a control room would be set up on the premises of the corporation to monitor the vehicles.

"Installation of GPS in one vehicle will cost around Rs 5,000. The device will be installed on the steering of the vehicle," he said.

Residents of the city have welcomed the decision and are optimistic that the steps would help improve the sanitary situation of the city.

"The system will ensure that garbage is collected every day," said Bipin Dash, a resident.