The Odisha government has issued a firm directive to curb the menace of littering at popular tourist and picnic destinations across the state. With the New Year festivities leading to a surge in visitors, authorities are taking a strict stance against environmental pollution caused by revellers.
Minister's Stern Directive on Pollution
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia delivered a clear warning on Tuesday. He stated that the government will take strong action against people who pollute picnic and tourist places. The minister emphasized that pollution in the name of picnic and merry-making will not be tolerated.
He revealed that the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has been instructed to keep a close watch on the situation and implement all necessary measures. This directive comes after the forest department observed violations of the plastic ban at various ecotourism and picnic spots where polythene carry bags are prohibited.
Linking Litter to Broader Air Quality Crisis
The crackdown on littering is set against the backdrop of serious air quality concerns in Odisha. Officials pointed out that non-biodegradable waste, like plastic bags, does not decompose and causes long-term environmental harm. A forest department officer explained that littered polythene bags also accumulate dust and contribute to ambient air pollution, exacerbating the existing problem.
This concern is not unfounded. In the first week of December, Bhubaneswar's air quality plummeted to the 'poor' category, recording an average AQI of 270. This was one of the worst readings in the country at the time, following Delhi's 318. Experts attributed the spike to factors like incomplete road work, exposed dry soil, and mechanical sweeping, which led to alarmingly high levels of PM 2.5 particles. These fine particles are a major health hazard, known to trigger pulmonary diseases.
The state's industrial towns are also grappling with severe pollution. In December last year, Angul was ranked the fourth-most polluted city in India with an AQI of 323, while neighbouring Talcher was sixth with an AQI of 302.
Public Advisory and Responsible Tourism
Minister Singkhuntia urged citizens to act responsibly. "Picnickers are under the watch of the OSPCB. The pollution panel has issued an advisory. People need to understand and behave responsibly while going for a picnic," he said. The government's message is clear: enjoying nature should not come at the cost of destroying it. The combined focus is on protecting Odisha's natural heritage from both localized littering and the broader spectre of urban air pollution.
