Plastic bottles banks installed at Ukhrul
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, April 23 2023: Altogether 10 plastic bottle banks have been installed at Ukhrul today for collection of used plastic bottles and to manage solid waste.

Joint Director of Environment and Climate Change Dr T Brajakumar attended the inauguration ceremony at Tangrei Community Hall, Ukhrul as chief guest.

As part of the programme, an awareness campaign on solid waste management was also organised for the residents of Tangrei.

Speaking at the event, Dr Brajakumar expressed concern over the environmental changes seen in Ukhrul which he said was once a fine hill station with moderate climate and rich resources.

Saying that abnormal rainfall patterns, soil erosion, rise in temperature are all caused by widespread destruction of the environment, he appealed to all to preserve nature.

Plastic bottles banks installed at Ukhrul

Saying that solid waste both dry and wet have to be disposed of properly to have a cleaner environment, he added that the gas emitted by burning plastic is toxic.

Solid waste management is not only the responsibility of the Government, Dr Brajakumar continued and sought cooperation from the public in safeguarding the environment.

He went on to state that traditional knowledge on waste management has to be blended with new methods for better management and urged the local authority to frame some regulations on solid waste management for the residents to follow.

M Zimik secretary of Khamatek, Ukhrul in his welcome address highlighted the detailed objectives of the organization.

According to him, Tangrei would be the "model locality" of Ukhrul town which is free from plastic waste within six months.

Saying that the coverage of their endeavour will expand in a phase manner, he added that they will organise different activities such as regular social work, cleanliness competition, awareness campaign on solid waste management to sensitize the people .

Meanwhile Tangkhul Shanao Long president Thingreiphy Lungharwo highlighted the roles and responsibility of women in waste management.

Hunphun/Ukhrul VA Secretary Worngam Muirangwo, chairman of Tangrei Thotngashing Chiphang, ex-TNL president Artax Shimray, women and youth leaders also attended the programme.

Awareness campaign on solid waste management and installation of plastic bottle banks at Ukhrul was organised by Khamatek, Ukhrul in collaboration with Directorate of Environment and Climate change Govt.of Manipur and Autonomous District Council ( ADC), Ukhrul.