DEHRADUN: The Dehradun city here marked a a big day in its fight against plastic pollution as the Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd.), inaugurated a Plastic Bank at Raj Bhawan on Gandhi Jayanti and Swachh Bharat Diwas celebrated across the nation today.
Addressing the the gathering, Governor said, "This Plastic Bank at Raj Bhawan is a step towards a cleaner Uttarakhand. It's a community-driven initiative that reflects Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of cleanliness."
The event was organized by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB), showcasing the state’s commitment to fighting plastic.
The senior government officials, including Principal Secretary-Forest and Environment RK Sudhanshu, Head of Forest Force Dr. Dhananjai Mohan, and UKPCB Member Secretary Dr. Parag Dhakate, attended the function.
Dr. Dhakate said, "The Plastic Bank is not just about waste management but about community engagement. We hope to involve more citizens in the fight against plastic."
The Plastic Bank at Raj Bhawan is the 211th in Dehradun set up up the initiative from the SDC Foundation.
There are over 80,000 people already involved through schools, hostels, RWAs, government offices, and popular spots along the Dehradun-Kimadi-Mussoorie route in this plastic bank campaign.
SDC Foundation President Anoop Nautiyal remarked, "This Plastic Bank at the Raj Bhawan is a powerful example of what a community can achieve when everyone works together. With the government’s backing, we are hopeful this initiative will grow even further."
He also acknowledged Airbus India’s crucial role, stating, "This project has been made possible thanks to the generous support of Airbus India. Their involvement has been instrumental in driving the Plastic Bank initiative forward."
Today's inauguration highlights Dehradun’s growing strength in its mission to go plastic-free, honoring Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy of cleanliness.