Prayagraj, Nov 13 (UNI) The Uttar Pradesh government is making efforts to ensure that the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is not only the biggest religious gathering but also a shining example of cleanliness and environmental consciousness.
In line with this goal, the government has launched a series of initiatives aimed at making the event clean and eco-friendly.
One of the key steps in this direction is the ban on single-use plastic, coupled with a plastic buyback campaign and widespread awareness programmes to discourage plastic usage. The government is also focusing on energy production from waste, efficient waste disposal mechanisms, and real-time cleanliness monitoring, ensuring a hygienic environment throughout the event.
Public participation has been strongly encouraged, allowing the community to contribute towards maintaining cleanliness and promoting sustainability. Through these efforts, the Yogi government not only aims to provide convenience and excellent service to the devotees but also ensures that their experience at the Maha Kumbh will be memorable.
The authorities hope that the 45-day-long mega event will set a global benchmark for cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
This year, the Yogi government’s goal for the Maha Kumbh Mela is to reduce pollution by eliminating single-use plastic. As part of this effort, plastic bags, utensils, and bottles have been completely banned, and biodegradable alternatives are being promoted.
The authorities have decided to set up shops selling eco-friendly items like dona-pattal, kulhads, and non-plastic bags at the mela site so that devotees can contribute to cleanliness. Tenders have already been issued for this, and the allocation of stalls is expected to take place soon.
In addition to this, awareness campaigns are being run, with a focus on reusable alternatives. Vendors are being encouraged to use eco-friendly products, and efforts are underway to create a plastic-free zone through volunteer initiatives, community engagement, no-plastic zone signage, and plastic-free boarding.
Under the plastic buy-back program, visitors are being encouraged to return plastic items for recycling. This initiative not only helps reduce littering but also incentivises the return of plastic goods by offering rewards for each item returned.
The programme promotes cleanliness while fostering public participation in environmental conservation. The initiative is being actively run by the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation.
At the Maha Kumbh Mela, bio-digesters and composting units have been installed to convert organic waste into renewable energy by processing food and biodegradable waste. This initiative not only helps in waste disposal but also contributes to energy production.
Besides, trained staff and volunteers have been deployed with waste collection tools to maintain cleanliness in the Mela area. This strengthens sanitation management and encourages active public participation.
Various awareness campaigns are also being run to raise consciousness about environmental impact during the event. Moreover, a real-time waste tracking app has been introduced to monitor and manage waste in crowded areas.
