Punjab Administration Unveils Green Vision for Hola Mohalla 2026
In a significant move towards environmental stewardship, the Punjab administration has initiated detailed planning for the upcoming Hola Mohalla celebrations in 2026. Ropar Deputy Commissioner Aditya Dachalwal, in collaboration with Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) Chairperson Reena Gupta, chaired a crucial meeting in Sri Anandpur Sahib on Friday to ensure the festival is conducted in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner.
Commitment to a Plastic-Free Celebration
Under the overarching theme "Green Hola Mohalla", the district administration has pledged to transform the traditional festivities into a model of environmental responsibility. Deputy Commissioner Aditya Dachalwal emphasized the administration's unwavering commitment to organizing an event that prioritizes hygiene and sustainability. "Our goal is to celebrate Hola Mohalla in a truly green manner and leave a positive environmental impact for future generations," he stated, underscoring the long-term vision behind these initiatives.
Key Initiatives for Sustainable Management
The meeting outlined several groundbreaking measures to minimize the festival's ecological footprint:
- Complete Ban on Single-Use Plastic: A strict prohibition on all single-use plastic items will be enforced throughout the festival venues.
- Distribution of Compostable Utensils: Over 10 lakh compostable plates, glasses, and spoons made from agricultural crop residue, such as maize and sugarcane waste, will be provided to langar committees. This initiative aims to ensure hygienic food services while facilitating easy composting and scientific waste disposal.
- Enhanced Waste Management: Dedicated teams will oversee proper waste segregation and disposal, with special collection points established across the mela areas to promote cleanliness and efficiency.
These steps are designed to prevent plastic pollution and promote sustainable waste management practices, aligning with global environmental standards.
Festival Schedule and Administrative Coordination
The Hola Mohalla celebrations are scheduled to take place in two phases:
- From February 27 to March 1 at Kiratpur Sahib.
- From March 2 to March 4 at Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Deputy Commissioner Dachalwal appealed to all stakeholders, including Sant Mahapurush, social organizations, shopkeepers, hotel owners, langar committees, and devotees, to cooperate with the administration in implementing these green measures. In response, PPCB Chairperson Reena Gupta assured full support from her board, announcing that special awareness drives will be conducted in mela areas to discourage the use of single-use plastic in langars, shops, hotels, and restaurants.
This collaborative effort between the district administration and the PPCB marks a proactive step towards integrating environmental consciousness into cultural celebrations, setting a precedent for future events in the region.
