Bhubaneswar: In a significant move against environmental hazards, Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has directed temples across the state to enforce a strict ban on single-use plastics and implement eco-friendly practices.
Officials said the directive aligns with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and its subsequent amendments.
It has been observed that single-use plastic items such as carry bags, thermocol plates, cups, straws, and cutlery are being used widely during religious rituals and festivities, causing waste accumulation in and around temple areas. Therefore, the OPSCB prescribed stricter measures.
As per the new guidelines, devotees are prohibited from carrying puja materials, prasad, or food items in single-use plastic bags. They are encouraged to adopt sustainable alternatives such as bamboo baskets, leaf-made containers, or reusable bags.
Vendors operating within and around temple premises have also been instructed to sell puja items and prasad only in approved eco-friendly packaging. The Board has asked temple administrations to provide bamboo baskets or leaf containers for devotees and ensure the availability of reusable alternatives.
This apart, temples are required to install separate color-coded bins for wet and dry waste collection and ensure proper disposal through authorised municipal waste collectors. Nearby hotels, restaurants, and vendors have been directed to refrain from using plastic and thermocol cutlery, including cups, plates, straws, spoons, forks, knives, and plastic carry bags below 120 microns. Biodegradable and compostable alternatives such as leaf plates, wooden spoons, paper straws, and metal utensils are to be promoted instead.
The directive also includes guidelines for ritual immersions, with designated enclosed areas in temple ponds or other water bodies to ensure proper disposal of offerings. Temples are further instructed to conduct awareness campaigns to educate devotees on responsible waste management practices.
The SPCB has urged all stakeholders, including devotees, vendors, and temple authorities, to cooperate in keeping temple premises clean, green, and free from single-use plastics, highlighting the collective responsibility toward environmental protection.
