To ensure strict adherence to the norm, hefty fine is collected from violators
Heaps of disposable plastic plates, and plastic glasses, water bottles and sachets strewn all over are a common sight post an event at function halls, marriage venues, and on roads as well. With extensive use of plastics becoming the order of the day, such venues not only present a revolting sight but also pose a challenge to the civic staff and other workers engaged in the task of clearing them.
To top it all, such unbridled use of plastics poses an environmental problem and a health hazard too. And the solution to it lies in our hands; the only prerequisite is to be sensitive towards environment.
Showing the way
The Vasavi Bhavan and the Arya Vysya Dharmasala run by the Arya Vysya Sangham of Saluru in the district have shown the way in overcoming the problem.
Recognising the utility of self regulation, the managements of both the function halls have started implementing the ‘no plastics’ initiative on their respective premises.
For cent percent adherence, they have made it a point to levy hefty fine on marriage parties using plastics in any form.
Both the managements collect ₹6,000 towards fine in advance and return it only if the marriage parties adhere to the guidelines in toto. And these norms are displayed at vantage points on their premises as well.
“Only steel plates and glasses have to be used during functions. This ensures cleanliness on the premises, besides making the younger generation more aware of the adverse impact plastics have on environment,” said Ganta Venkata Raju, president of the Arya Vysya Sangham.
No crackers too
“Bursting of crackers in and around the marriage hall is also not allowed as it causes sound pollution,” said Sangham secretary P. Someswara Rao.
Taking a cue from these managements, the Saluru Rotary Club has taken up the ‘no plastics’ campaign in the town. “We are requesting other function halls also to ban use of plastics and bursting of crackers. Schoolchildren and college students are actively participating in the campaign,” said R. Shyam Sundara Rao, president of the Rotary Club.
Hailing the development, K. Rama Rao, a senior citizen, said, “There were no plastic bottles and plates a few decades ago. Environment-friendly leaf plates were in use then at function halls. We have to revive our traditions to protect our environment.”
Youngsters caught the attention of the guests at a function recently in Vasavi Bhavan by encouraging the use of steel glasses for consumption of water.
“The use of environment-friendly material is the need of the hour. Heaps of plastic material is seen on roads in Kerala as floodwaters started receding in the affected areas. This should serve as an eye opener for us,” Hari Priya, a newly-wedded youngster, said.
