Godavari Pushkaralu: AP Pollution Control Board Pushes for Plastic Waste Management Plan

Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Chairman Dr P. Krishnaiah has called for a comprehensive action plan to minimise plastic pollution during the upcoming Godavari Pushkaralu, stressing the need for effective collection and recycling of used plastic bottles. He directed officials and beverage manufacturers to take preventive measures to stop plastic waste from accumulating at pilgrimage sites and along the riverbanks.

Krishnaiah held a video conference with representatives of leading beverage companies from the APPCB headquarters in Vijayawada to discuss preparations for the religious gathering, drinking water arrangements, plastic waste management and the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives. Rajamahendravaram District Collector Keerthi Chekuri, the Municipal Commissioner, concerned officials and industry representatives attended the meeting.

With the Godavari Pushkaralu expected to attract large numbers of devotees, on a scale comparable to the Kumbh Mela, Krishnaiah said authorities must anticipate the environmental challenges arising from increased consumption of packaged drinking water and beverages.

He urged companies to explore eco-friendly packaging alternatives, including plant-based materials and paper bottles, to reduce dependence on conventional plastic containers. Installing water dispensers at strategic locations and encouraging devotees to use reusable bottles were among the measures suggested to curb plastic consumption.

The chairman stressed that an efficient collection and recycling network must be established before the festivities begin. Dedicated collection points should be set up, plastic waste separated from other garbage and discarded bottles transported to authorised recycling agencies. He emphasised that collecting waste alone would not be sufficient and that its recycling must be monitored until completion.

Krishnaiah also called for a comprehensive audit of plastic usage during the Pushkaralu. Companies and authorities should document the number of bottles sold or distributed free of charge, the quantity collected, the volume sent for recycling and the waste remaining uncollected.

Representatives of Hindustan Coca-Cola, Reliance, Bisleri International and Artos, among other companies, discussed proposals for drinking water supplies, dispenser installations, bottle collection and recycling arrangements.

Krishnaiah directed the participating organisations to submit detailed action plans within 15 days, specifying their proposed initiatives, support for the event, waste management strategies and plans to adopt sustainable packaging.

He called for coordinated efforts by government departments, industries and local bodies to ensure that the Godavari River and its surroundings remain clean throughout the religious gathering.