In a concerted effort to combat plastic pollution, district administrations across Andhra Pradesh organized awareness campaigns under the “Swarnandhra-Swacchandhra” initiative on Saturday. The events focused on spreading knowledge about the dangers of plastic use and promoting cleaner environments within communities.
Awareness Initiatives in Nandyal
In Nandyal district, Minister for Minority Welfare N. Md. Farooq and District Collector Rajakumari Gania led the campaign. Underlining the importance of environmental cleanliness, Gania called on residents from villages to districts to work towards the goals of “Swarnandhra-Swacchandhra.”
“Every individual should stop using plastic bags and disposables,” she emphasized during the campaign. Gania advocated for a shift in the local economy, suggesting that those who rely on making plastic products should transition to manufacturing eco-friendly jute and paper bags. She encouraged the community to embrace these alternatives to mitigate plastic waste.
Accompanied by Minister Farooq, Gania engaged with the public, raising awareness of plastic’s adverse effects while participating in street-cleaning efforts. This hands-on approach aimed to demonstrate the community’s role in maintaining cleanliness.
Efforts in Anantapur
In Anantapur district, District Collector Vinod Kumar V. spearheaded a rally in Bondalavada village, where he urged locals to recognize the hazards attributed to plastic consumption. Highlighting that single-use plastics are already banned within municipal limits, Kumar announced plans to enforce this ban in rural areas as well.
Kumar reported that they have also initiated a garbage disposal project in Anantapur town, with the vision of transforming the district into a clean and sustainable environment. The Collector notably mentioned that single-use plastic water bottles have been banned in the Collectorate, setting an example for other government institutions.
Adding to these efforts, Anantapur Urban MLA Daggupati Venkateswara Prasad also led a rally, emphasizing the need to make the city completely plastic-free. He advocated for a significant increase in the use of cloth bags and distributed jute bags during the event to promote sustainable practices.
Kurnool’s Cleanliness Drive
In Kurnool, law enforcement joined the cleanliness movement under the directive of Superintendent of Police Vikrant Patel. Officers participated in a cleanliness drive at police station premises, emphasizing that maintaining clean surroundings is a shared responsibility.
Patel reiterated the message that everyone has a role to play in preserving the environment, urging citizens to reflect on their own waste management habits. The initiative served not only to promote cleanliness but also to inspire others in the community to take similar actions in their respective areas.
A Statewide Movement
The “Swarnandhra-Swacchandhra” campaign reflects a broader commitment by officials across Andhra Pradesh to combat plastic pollution and foster environmental responsibility. By promoting awareness and encouraging communities to adopt sustainable practices, the state aims to create a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents.
As these initiatives unfold, the involvement of local leaders, citizens, and law enforcement illustrates a unified front against the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution, signaling a significant shift towards sustainability in Andhra Pradesh.
