Ranchi: In a significant move to combat plastic pollution, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) is set to install a biodegradable polybag manufacturing machine at Naga Baba Khatal. This initiative aims to provide an eco-friendly alternative to banned plastic carry bags and reduce plastic waste in the city.
Eco-Friendly Production
Officials have confirmed that the machine will produce bags made from maize starch, a material that decomposes into the soil within six months and is also water-soluble. The unit is expected to manufacture between 70 and 80 kilograms of bags each day. This marks the first time a government agency in Ranchi, and possibly in Jharkhand, will be manufacturing such bags.
Women Empowerment at the Core
RMC administrator Sushant Gaurav stated, “The plant is being established to reduce plastic waste and, at the same time, is also aimed at women empowerment.” The machine will be managed by a women self-help group area-level federation. Ten SHGs, comprising about 100 women, will be involved in handling raw materials, manufacturing, packaging, and marketing. The benefits will directly go to these SHGs, with production running from morning to evening.
Affordable and Accessible
The biodegradable bags will be sold in RMC markets, including Naga Baba Khatal, Atal Smriti Vendor Market near Gopala Complex on Main Road, Lalpur market near Distillery Pool, and Morabadi Vending Zone 2. Initially, the bags will be available at vegetable markets at Rs 120 to Rs 140 per kilogram. Currently, such bags are sourced from Kolkata in West Bengal and sold in Ranchi at Rs 160 to Rs 180 per kilogram. The new unit is expected to make biodegradable bags cheaper and more accessible for vendors and shoppers following the single-use plastic ban.
Implementation Timeline
The machine will be sourced from Gujarat, and work is expected to commence by the end of this month. Local SHG members will operate and manage the plant, from handling raw materials to marketing. This initiative not only addresses environmental concerns but also fosters economic empowerment for women in the region.
