Kerala Launches Ambitious Campaign for Waste-Free State by 2025

Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, has launched an ambitious public campaign aimed at achieving a garbage-free state by March 30, 2025. The initiative, supported by an all-party meeting, seeks to implement comprehensive waste management practices across various sectors, with a focus on public participation, scientific methods, and strict enforcement against banned plastic products.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday secured full backing from an all-party meeting for the Left government's ambitious plan to make the state garbage-free by March 30, 2025.

A public campaign will commence on October 2, 2024, and culminate on International Zero-Waste Day, March 30, 2025. Chief Minister Vijayan emphasized that the campaign will begin with the inauguration of waste management models at state, district, and regional levels, aiming to declare Kerala a completely clean state by the target date.

A release from the Chief Minister's Office detailed plans to involve neighbourhoods, villages, cities, government and private sector offices, schools, colleges, and tourist spots in waste reduction, proper sorting, and treatment of waste. The campaign also calls for the establishment of treatment plants and the cleaning of water sources and drains.

The meeting also addressed deficiencies in waste collection and disposal, aiming for a coordinated approach between various departments. Actions will include the installation of AI-based cameras and the creation of green checkposts to prevent banned plastic materials from entering the state. There will be strict action against establishments manufacturing or selling banned plastic products, supported by a robust public awareness campaign.

Prominent religious, social, political, student, women, and cultural organizations have been urged to comply with the Green Code during their events. An executive committee headed by the Chief Minister, including the Leader of the Opposition and various ministers, will oversee the campaign's implementation, supported by district and local level committees.