NOB_Domakonda (Kamareddy District): In a bid to transform Gottimukkula village of Domakonda Mandal into a plastic-free village, District Collector Ashish Sangwan reviewed the initiatives being undertaken by the Gram Panchayat on Friday.

Appreciating the efforts of the panchayat, the Collector said reducing plastic usage is not a one-man responsibility and can only be achieved through collective efforts of people, officials and public representatives.

Innovative Measures by Gram Panchayat:

The Sarpanch explained the awareness programs being conducted in the village to the Collector.

– Steel Utensil Bank: The panchayat has purchased steel plates and steel glasses community-wise to be used in all auspicious functions and social events. This has significantly reduced the use of paper and plastic plates and glasses.

– Waste-to-Reward: Villagers are being encouraged to bring plastic waste to the Gram Panchayat instead of littering. As an incentive, those who hand over plastic waste are being given steel water bottles.

– Donor Support: A donor has come forward to donate 300 steel plates for regular community use at the IKP Sangha building.

Bank Linkage Loans Worth Rs 1 Crore to Women SHGs:

As part of the program, bank linkage loans totaling Rs 1 crore were sanctioned to six women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through Canara Bank. Collector Ashish Sangwan handed over the cheques to the representatives of the groups and advised them to utilize the loans for income-generating activities and achieve economic development.

Speaking on the occasion, the Collector said, “Plastic waste has a negative impact on water, soil and environment. Everyone must take responsibility in protecting the environment by gradually reducing plastic use.”

He gave a call to widely spread the message – “Say No to Plastic, Prevent Diseases… Protect Water, Soil and Environment.” He directed officials to continue the activities in Gottimukkula village and involve more people.

Awareness with Students:

An awareness program was conducted for UPS school students on the harms of plastic use, plastic waste management and environmental protection. On this occasion, students performed a skit on plastic prevention, which was appreciated by the Collector and officials.

As part of the program, District Collector Ashish Sangwan and Additional Collector (Local Bodies) N.Y. Giri distributed jute bags to every household and urged people to use reusable jute bags instead of plastic carry bags.

Additional Collector N.Y. Giri, DRDA PD Damodar Reddy, Special Officer Jyothi, DLPO Srinivas, Canara Bank officials, Gram Panchayat representatives, women SHG members and students participated in the program.