DRASS: The District Administration Drass on Monday launched a comprehensive stakeholder-driven initiative to strengthen enforcement of the ban on single-use plastic and curb littering, with Deputy Commissioner Imteeaz Kacho and Superintendent of Police Ishtyaq Kacho calling for coordinated action to safeguard the district’s fragile environment.
The meeting, chaired by the Deputy Commissioner at the Tourist Dak Bungalow in Drass, brought together representatives from educational institutions, religious bodies, health and development departments, hospitality establishments, civil society organisations, village representatives and the media to deliberate on measures aimed at making Drass cleaner and environmentally sustainable.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the environmental and public health concerns associated with single-use plastic and stressed the need for strict adherence to the prohibition. He urged stakeholders to promote responsible waste management practices and intensify awareness efforts at the grassroots level through schools, religious institutions and community platforms.
The meeting resolved to strengthen awareness campaigns among tourists, labourers, porters and picnic groups, while also focusing on the installation of large-sized dustbins at strategic locations and the organisation of regular cleanliness drives across schools and villages.
In a move aimed at institutionalising environmental awareness, participants agreed to observe the last Saturday of every month as a ‘Cleanliness Awareness Day’ in educational institutions across the district. The administration also proposed greater use of information, education and communication (IEC) activities, documentaries and awareness videos to encourage behavioural change and environmental responsibility.
The Deputy Commissioner called for discouraging the use of single-use plastic during weddings, social functions and public gatherings, and urged residents to carry reusable bags while shopping. He further emphasised the importance of sharing best practices among educational institutions to address plastic pollution and conserve natural resources.
The deliberations also covered scientific solid waste management strategies, including sanitary landfill systems, alternatives to landfilling and wider adoption of the principles of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. The Health Department was directed to include awareness on the adverse health effects of junk food during school outreach programmes.
Superintendent of Police Ishtyaq Kacho assured full cooperation from the Police Department in enforcing regulations related to the plastic ban and litter control. He said signages and public notices would be installed to support awareness efforts and warned of strict action against violators.
Participants welcomed the administration’s initiative and pledged their support in mobilising community participation and conducting awareness campaigns. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure effective implementation of environmental protection measures across Drass district.
