Plant set up to manage single-use plastic waste in Mandi dist
A plastic waste management plant has been established in the Chauntra development block of Mandi district. The initiative, launched in the Passal panchayat area, aims to address the challenges posed by single-use plastic waste, affecting 42 gram panchayats in the block.
The plant, set up under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural), will process single-use plastic scientifically, thereby, mitigating the environmental issues associated with improper waste disposal.
To efficiently process plastic waste, the facility is equipped with baling machines, plastic shredders and dust removers. Additionally, e-rickshaws will be employed to collect waste from various panchayats.
Will facilitate 42 gram panchayats
- The plant, set up under Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural), aims to address the challenges posed by single-use plastic waste, affecting 42 gram panchayats within the block
- The facility is equipped with baling machines, plastic shredders and dust removers
- e-rickshaws will be employed to collect waste from various panchayats
Once processed, the plastic waste will be re-purposed for use in manufacturing cement and plastic goods, as well as for road construction projects being undertaken by the Public Works Department.
The problem of plastic waste has been exacerbated as single-use plastics are either discarded improperly or incinerated, leading to pollution and blocked village drains. The contamination extends to rivers, ponds, agricultural land and water sources.
Vishal Singh Rathore, pradhan of Passal gram panchayat, highlighted the urgent need for this plant, adding that plastic waste has become a pressing issue in the rural areas. He also announced the forthcoming installation of an incinerator machine dedicated to the disposal of sanitary pads and napkins.
Sarvan Kumar, Block Development Officer (BDO) of Chauntra, elaborated on the plant’s objectives, stating that it was established with an investment of around Rs 16 lakh to manage single-use plastic waste from 42 gram panchayats. In 17 panchayats, approximately 62 kg of plastic waste was collected so far, he added. This waste will be transported to the plant.
The BDO urged residents to avoid improper disposal of single-use plastic waste and instead hand it over to panchayat representatives, cleanliness volunteers, field staff or self-help groups under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme for proper processing. He called for community cooperation to ensure the success of the initiative.
