Puri: The Odisha Development Management Programme (ODMP) has launched a large-scale “Used PET Bottle-Free Rath Yatra” campaign to keep Puri free of discarded plastic bottles during the annual festival.
The drive, which began July 15, will continue till July 27 to promote responsible waste collection and recycling during one of India’s largest religious gatherings.
The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB), Puri Municipal Corporation, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) and Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation.
The 10-day campaign aims to raise awareness among pilgrims, residents and local businesses on the proper collection, disposal and recycling of used PET bottles.
Launching the campaign, Health & Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said maintaining cleanliness during Rath Yatra is a shared responsibility.
Appreciating the continued support of HC CB and Anandana for the third consecutive year, he said active community participation, volunteer engagement and responsible recycling would help preserve the sanctity of the holy city while promoting environmental sustainability.
As part of the campaign, over 200 volunteers and Safai Saathis have been deployed at major congregation points, including Pallishree Mela Ground, Bholanath Vidya Pith, Puri Main Bus Stand, Talabania Temporary Bus Stand, Puri Railway Station, Badasankha, Digabareni Square, Swargadwar and other beach locations.
Help desks have also been set up near temple and beach areas to guide pilgrims on proper segregation and disposal of used PET bottles, ensuring that the collected plastic is sent for recycling.
To make the awareness campaign more engaging, or ganisers are using traditional Odia folk-art performances and nukkad nataks (street plays) at key locations across the city to spread the message of responsible plastic waste management.
ODMP and its partners organised PET bottle collection drives, plogging activities and awareness programmes involving hotel owners and other institutional stakeholders to minimise plastic waste generation.
The organisers said the initiative reflects a collaborative effort by government agencies, civic bodies and private partners to maintain the cleanliness of Puri during the festival while encouraging sustainable PET waste management practices across the state.