Home / Environment / Puducherry Battles Plastic Tide in Ariyankuppam River
Puducherry Battles Plastic Tide in Ariyankuppam River
22 Sep
Summary
- Carry bags are the largest plastic waste component found in backwaters.
- Plastic waste will be converted into fuel oil via pyrolysis.
- Inspections will intensify at parcel services to stop illegal bag imports.
Authorities in Puducherry have initiated a comprehensive action plan to curb single-use plastic waste contaminating the Ariyankuppam river and Thengaithittu backwaters. This initiative follows a recent report highlighting the severe impact of plastic pollution on the local ecosystem.
A characterization study revealed that carry bags are the predominant type of plastic litter, making up 23.5% of the waste. Other significant waste items include wood, PET water bottles, and packaging covers, underscoring the ongoing challenge of beverage-related waste.
The collected plastic waste, managed by a boom barrier in the backwaters, will be processed for pyrolysis to produce fuel oil. Inspections are being intensified at parcel service agencies and marketplaces to prevent the entry and sale of prohibited plastic bags, which are being illegally imported from neighboring states.
Additionally, a system for collecting used water bottles at tourist hotspots and a buyback mechanism for liquor bottles are being developed. These measures aim to reduce the plastic burden and protect the ecologically sensitive mangrove areas.
