BARAMULLA: The weeklong sanitation drive under ‘Swachta He Seva’ campaign, aimed to eradicate environmental pollution especially plastic waste, concluded here today. At the valedictory function, Commissioner Secretary Horticulture Manzoor Ahmad Lone was the chief guest whereas Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Dr GN Itoo and Director Urban Local Bodies Kashmir Farooq Ahmad Rather were the guest of honours.
President Municipal Council Baramulla, EOs and Councilors of various Municipalities, officers from various Departments besides students and civil society members were present on the occasion. The Commissioner Secretary highlighted the aim of the campaign and said that the campaign was meant to sensitize and bring behavioral change among the people with regard to the sanitation and cleanliness.
He said that several sanitation oriented activities were carried out throughout J&K during the week. On the occasion, the DC stressed upon the people to avoid use of polythene and plastic which he said has hazardous consequences on the existence of flora and fauna. He also said that the recycling process of plastic waste shall be initiated besides an alternative of the plastic shall be explored. He further said that the jute carry bags will be distributed free of cost among the people and shopkeepers in the district.
Director Local Bodies, on the occasion, said that a number of awareness programmes have been organized by the staff of Municipal Councils/Committees in collaboration with other stakeholders regarding to raise awareness on ‘Not to use plastic’. He said that around 1760Kgs of single use plastic waste was collected by 42 Municipalities.
Earlier, an awareness rally was organized by the District Administration wherein participants carrying placards and banners on cleanliness and hygiene went through main markets and culminated at Eco Park Baramulla.