GPCB Launches Plastic-Free Drive Around Major Temples, 100-Metre ‘Swachh Dharmik Zones’ to Be Enforced
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Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has launched a state-wide campaign, ‘Swachh Tirthsthan, Pavitra Gujarat’, aimed at curbing plastic pollution around major places of worship during the Shravan month.
Under the initiative, areas extending 100 metres from the main entrance of temples will be designated as ‘Swachh Dharmik Zones’, where authorities will strictly monitor and enforce a ban on single-use plastic.
100-Metre Plastic-Free Buffer Around Temples
The campaign seeks to create cleaner surroundings at religious sites across Gujarat while reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste generated by devotees and visitors.
Within the designated 100-metre zones, authorities will maintain strict vigilance against the use and disposal of Single-Use Plastic (SUP).
The initiative will cover major temple complexes and other important religious sites across the state.
Flowers and Offerings to Be Turned Into Compost, Incense
The GPCB has also introduced a structured system for segregating waste generated at places of worship.
Dedicated collection urns and pots will be placed at designated locations for devotees to dispose of used flowers, leaves and other organic worship offerings instead of dumping them in open areas.
The collected organic waste will be processed and reused to produce compost, incense sticks and dhoop cones, according to the campaign plan.
The initiative aims to improve waste management while finding productive uses for materials traditionally discarded after religious rituals.
NGOs, NSS and NCC Volunteers to Join Drive
To increase public participation, the GPCB is mobilising NGOs, Sakhi Mandals, Youth Mandals and volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) and National Cadet Corps (NCC).
Volunteers participating in the campaign will work as ‘Harit Sathi’ and ‘Swachh Tirthasthan Sevaks’.
They will assist authorities with waste-management activities, guide devotees on proper disposal practices and spread awareness about reducing plastic use around religious sites.
The ‘Swachh Tirthsthan, Pavitra Gujarat’ campaign aims to combine cleanliness and environmental protection with religious practices, with authorities seeking greater community participation to keep Gujarat's major places of worship free from plastic waste.
