Part of: West Bengal Gk set 34

Many adults and children search the rubbish dumps on the ..... of Kolkata, looking for things to sell or reuse.

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the areas where waste collection and disposal typically occur in large cities.

Correct Answer: C) Outskirts

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

In large urban areas like Kolkata, waste management is a significant challenge. The city, like many others, faces the issue of waste disposal and recycling. Typically, waste is not managed in the central or middle parts of the city due to the high density of residential and commercial buildings. Instead, waste is often transported to the outskirts of the city, where there is more space for large waste dumps and landfills.

The outskirts of Kolkata are areas that are less developed and have more open spaces. These areas are often used for waste disposal, and it is here that many adults and children can be found searching through the rubbish. They look for items that can be sold or reused, such as scrap metal, plastic, or other materials that have some value. This activity is part of the informal economy and is a common sight in many developing cities.

It is important to understand the socio-economic conditions that lead to this practice. Many people in Kolkata, and in other large cities, rely on scavenging waste as a means of income. This is often a last resort for those who are economically disadvantaged and have limited access to formal employment. The practice highlights the broader issues of poverty, unemployment, and the lack of effective waste management systems in urban areas.

While the other options (center, middle, and underground) might seem plausible, they do not accurately reflect the reality of waste management in Kolkata. The center and middle of the city are typically more developed and do not have the space for large waste dumps. Underground waste management is not a common practice in urban areas, as it is more complex and costly to implement.

Understanding the socio-economic conditions and waste management practices in Kolkata is crucial for comprehending the broader issues of urban development and poverty. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive exams that cover general knowledge and socio-economic issues.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect because the center of the city is typically more developed and does not usually have large waste dumps. The center is more likely to have commercial and residential areas.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect for the same reason as Option A. The middle of the city is not where waste is typically disposed of, as it is usually managed on the outskirts.
  • Option C: This option is correct because the outskirts of Kolkata are where waste is commonly disposed of, and many people search these areas for items to sell or reuse.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because waste management does not typically occur underground in urban areas. While there may be underground sewage systems, waste dumps are usually above ground on the outskirts of the city.

Mnemonic: Remember: "Outskirts" for "Outside" where waste is often dumped.

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