The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) concluded a statewide sensitisation drive in Patiala on Thursday, training over 13,000 waste and horticulture workers across urban local bodies (ULBs) to curb open waste burning and improve air quality management, officials said.
Training Programme Details
The programme was launched in November 2025 under the Mission Clean Air Patiala campaign. Since then, 13,023 waste and horticulture workers—both regular and informal—have been trained in 216 batches across all 166 ULBs in the state.
The training focused on scientific waste handling, source segregation, prevention of open waste burning, and efficient disposal practices to reduce particulate pollution and improve ambient air quality. The initiative marked a shift from punitive measures towards grassroots empowerment, the board said.
Unique Training Approach
The trainings, designed by the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy, integrated references from religious scriptures to emphasise the cultural and ethical importance of environmental stewardship. Interactive sessions simplified concepts such as suspended particulate matter (SPM) and highlighted the health impacts of air pollution.
PPCB chairperson Reena Gupta stated, "Several air quality studies in Punjab have identified open burning of municipal solid waste as a significant contributor to air pollution. This first-of-its-kind initiative by a State Pollution Control Board recognises waste workers as the backbone of our environmental ecosystem. By empowering the frontline workers, we are seeking their active involvement in cleaner air and healthier ecosystem."
Gupta added, "I appeal to Punjab to not burn garbage and also prevent others from indulging in this practice. Violations are punitive with challans up to Rs 25,000. People must report violations to the local authorities or the board."
