BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday announced the ban on the use of plastic from October 2 in the state. In its first phase, plastic will be restricted to six places. This includes pilgrim cities Puri, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Barhampur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela. Later, it will be extended across the state over the next two years, Naveen said.
In this case, Odisha will become the 20th state in the country in the implementation of the plastic ban. Naveen made the announcement during the inaugural “Ama mukhyamantri, ama katha” (Our chief minister, our story) programme. In the event, Naveen interacted with people from 162-gram panchayats in the seven blocks of six districts. He spoke about the hazard we have posed to our environment with the use of plastic. He then announced his decision to ban plastic in the state. Through this interaction, Naveen will deliver social messages as a prelude to the “Ama gaon, ama bikash” event.
Naveen said plastic had posed a grave danger to the environment, health of children and the future of humans. Making an emphatic statement on environment protection, Naveen added, “Trees are embedded within culture. You very well know the importance of plants in our life. So please plant a sapling in this monsoon season and take care of it like a family member.” Interacting with panchayati raj representatives, Naveen said: “This money is yours – the people of Odisha. Please ensure that the sanctioned projects are executed effectively and soon.”
The Urban Development and Home Construction Department in the urban areas has to work this direction while the Panchayat Raj Department in the rural area has been given the responsibility of operating this instruction. Forest and Environment Department will work to control plastic pollution throughout the state. Environmentists believe that this move of the government will be a bit of a hassle, but its far-reaching benefits will be available to everyone.
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