Jharsuguda: To combat plastic pollution at natural attractions, Vedanta Aluminium teamed up with Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) to host an awareness and cleanliness drive at Koilighughar Waterfall near Lakhanpur in Jharsuguda district on December 20.
The event, part of the broader ‘Plastic-Free Picnic Spots’ campaign, aligns with the Odisha government’s efforts to phase out single-use plastics and promote sustainable habits at popular tourist sites, and also underscores Vedanta’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation, waste reduction, and community-driven eco-friendly practices, the aluminium producer said in a press.
It further noted that Koilighughar, a scenic 200-foot waterfall surrounded by dense forests and home to a revered Shiva lingam, draws crowds especially during winter picnics, who often leave behind plastic waste that harms local ecosystems.
Over 120 students from five local schools joined women from self-help groups (SHGs) and Vedanta employee volunteers in the effort. The activities included a major cleanup to remove litter, educational sessions on proper waste disposal, interactive student competitions, cultural performances, and a street play (nukkad natak) illustrating the damaging effects of plastic on forests, rivers, and wildlife. The participants also pledged to cut down on plastic use, adopt greener alternatives, and encourage plastic-free practices in public areas.
The programme was attended by key officials, including Jharsuguda Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan, Divisional Forest Officer Manu Ashok Bhat, and OSPCB Regional Officer Hiranya Kumar Nayak. It also saw a felicitation ceremony, honouring standout contributions from students, SHG members, and volunteers.
“Preserving sites like Koilighughar demands widespread awareness and lasting behavior change. Through campaigns like ‘Plastic-Free Picnic Spots–2025,’ we are working with communities to curb plastic pollution,” said CEO of Vedanta Jharsuguda, C Chandru, emphasising the company’s focus on actionable sustainability.
Jharsuguda Collector Chavan praised the collaboration. “The involvement of youth, locals, and industry shows how united efforts can protect our environment and secure Jharsuguda’s natural beauty for the future,” he added.
