The Gujarat High Court has taken a significant step towards reducing plastic waste in the state. A bench led by Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice D.N. Ray has directed all eight municipal corporations to implement a new initiative by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB). This initiative involves setting up cloth bag vending machines and reverse vending machines for collecting plastic bottles in areas with high foot traffic.
The court has instructed municipal corporations to identify suitable locations for these machines. This is crucial as it aims to make it easier for people to recycle and dispose of plastic waste responsibly. The High Court also emphasized the importance of this initiative in areas that attract many tourists, such as Dwarka and Somnath. These locations are known for their significant footfall, and placing machines there can further encourage recycling among visitors.
In its order, the High Court urged municipalities to take proactive measures to combat plastic waste. This includes not only adhering to existing rules but also fostering awareness about waste management. The court suggested that workshops should be held in schools run by municipal corporations to educate children about the importance of recycling and waste segregation.
Additionally, the court highlighted the need for effective implementation of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’, a campaign launched by the Central Government aimed at promoting cleanliness and sanitation across India. The High Court’s directive is a part of this larger mission, emphasizing local actions to manage waste effectively.
The court’s orders were prompted by a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Amit Panchal. He raised concerns about the growing issue of plastic waste at major tourist sites and urban areas. The court responded by directing state authorities to establish Material Recovery Facilities (MRF) for processing waste. An MRF is essential for sorting and handling recyclable materials collected from mixed waste streams.
The High Court insisted that the State Monitoring Committee and municipal commissioners meet with local officials to set a timeline for the installation of these facilities. This is to ensure that they engage with plastic waste processing units that are registered with the GPCB. The court made it clear that if the timeline is not met, the Chief Officer of the local municipality will face penalties.
The court will review the progress of these initiatives on September 12. According to an affidavit from the Plastic Waste Cell at GPCB in Gandhinagar, two major initiatives have already been launched. Cloth bag vending machines have been installed in Ahmedabad and Surat, while reverse vending machines have been set up across the state to promote responsible disposal and recycling of plastic bottles.
These measures reflect a growing awareness in Gujarat about the challenges posed by plastic waste. The government’s initiative aims to create a cleaner environment and promote sustainable practices among citizens. By installing these machines, the state hopes to encourage responsible behaviour regarding waste disposal and contribute to a healthier planet.
As these machines become operational, it is essential for residents and tourists alike to engage with them actively. The success of this initiative depends on community participation and the willingness to adopt more sustainable habits. The High Court’s intervention is a crucial step in addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste in Gujarat, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.