Himachal’s Green Initiative: 200 km of Roads from Plastic Waste

Himachal Pradesh is pioneering a sustainable infrastructure project aimed at constructing 200 kilometers of roads using plastic waste. Spearheaded by the Public Works Department (PWD), this innovative initiative addresses the state’s plastic waste problem while improving its road network.

Under the ‘buy-back policy’ for single-use plastic management, the PWD has already utilized approximately 1,300 tonnes of plastic waste in road construction and cement factories. DC Rana, Director of Environment, Science, and Technology, revealed this information during the fourth meeting of the Single Use Plastic Management Task Force. The meeting presided over by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, emphasized the state’s dedication to solid waste management, with a particular focus on plastic waste.

Chief Secretary Saxena highlighted the comprehensive measures being taken to manage solid waste, stressing the dangers posed by non-biodegradable polythene. Himachal Pradesh has imposed a complete ban on the use, sale, and manufacture of polythene or plastic 

carry bags made from non-biodegradable materials. This ban demonstrates the state’s proactive stance on environmental preservation and sustainable development.

Supporting this initiative, plastic waste is purchased at Rs 75 per kilogram through registered waste pickers and individual families. The collected waste includes a variety of plastic packaging materials from everyday products like bread, cakes, biscuits, snacks, ice cream, noodles, and liquids such as milk and juices. The removal and repurposing of these plastics are crucial steps towards reducing pollution and promoting sustainable waste management practices.

The state is also conducting awareness programs to educate the public about the harmful effects of single-use plastic and encourage participation in waste management efforts. The Health Department has issued alerts in several districts, urging people to wear masks to protect themselves from the smoke caused by ongoing forest fires, which has exacerbated the environmental situation.

Chief Secretary Saxena reiterated the state’s commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of plastic waste. He noted that these measures are not only vital for protecting the environment but also beneficial for the economy by providing a novel way to repurpose waste materials.

This green initiative by Himachal Pradesh sets a significant example for other states in managing plastic waste and integrating eco-friendly practices into infrastructure development. As the state continues to innovate and implement sustainable solutions, it moves closer to achieving its environmental conservation goals and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.