Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 01 January 2025
In a significant move towards environmental conservation, the Ramnagar Gram Panchayat has officially declared Ramnagar Beach a “Plastic-Free Zone” to mark the beginning of the New Year. This initiative is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission and aims to reduce plastic pollution while promoting cleanliness and sustainability in the region.
The campaign was inaugurated on December 31, 2024, during a ceremony graced by several dignitaries. Mr. Rajendra Kumar, Block Development Officer of Diglipur, attended as the chief guest, while Mr. Suresh V, Wildlife Range Officer of Kalara, and Mr. Rasheed, Forest Range Officer of Kalighat, were present as guests of honour. The guests applauded the initiative and urged the community to minimise plastic usage to preserve the natural beauty of Ramnagar village.
To ensure the success of the initiative, the Gram Panchayat has implemented strict measures, including vehicle entry fees and refundable security deposits for plastic items. According to the Pradhan of Ramnagar Gram Panchayat, Mr. Mitun Das, these measures are designed to discourage the use of plastics and encourage proper disposal.
Security deposits have been introduced for plastic items, such as ₹200 for bottles of 2 litres or more and ₹100 for smaller items like chips packets and juice packets. The deposits will be refunded if the plastic bottles, wrappers and other items are carried back to the Panchayat counter; otherwise, the security deposit will be forfeited.
Additionally, visitors are required to pay vehicle entry fee ranging from Rs. 10 for two-wheelers, Rs. 20 for 3 & 4 Wheelers and Rs. 50 for vehicles such as pick-up vans, buses and tempos.
The initiative aims to create a cleaner and greener environment while setting a benchmark for other regions to follow in combating plastic pollution. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Kakoli Ghosh, Panchayat Secretary of Ramnagar, who highlighted the importance of community participation in achieving the Panchayat’s environmental goals.