Patna: In a move that combines spirituality with social responsibility, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to inaugurate its Chakachak Sanitation Center today. The center, aimed at promoting cleanliness and waste management, has been prepared across 64 selected Durga Puja pandals in various wards of the city.
Multi-Faceted Awareness Program
Besides serving as sanitation centers, these specially identified pandals will host a range of awareness activities throughout the Durga Puja festivities. Activities are specifically designed to engage the community in waste management and segregation practices. Each of these pandals will be inaugurated by the respective Ward Councilor on 21st October, also known as Saptami in the Hindu calendar.
Gamification of Waste Management
To make the learning process engaging for the younger generation, PMC has organized two types of games centered around waste management. The first game involves sorting 30 balls labeled with different types of waste into four bins: wet waste, dry waste, sanitary waste, and household hazardous waste. Children who correctly sort 20 out of the 30 balls will be rewarded with food or discount coupons.
The second game will feature 30 balloons of colors representing four types of waste. Participants will be required to burst these balloons with darts. Successful participants will also receive coupons from PMC as a reward.
The Human Mascot and Plastic Demons
Adding a creative twist to the initiative, PMC has prepared a human mascot made of plastic waste. This mascot will roam around the pandals throughout the fair, educating people on the importance of segregating wet garbage like fruit peels and leftover food.
In a symbolic gesture to boycott plastic, two plastic “demons” will be constructed on 22nd October. These demons will be “slayed” by effigies of Maa Durga, sending out a powerful message against the use of plastic.
Public Engagement and Rewards
PMC is not only raising awareness but also rewarding responsible behavior. Children and adults participating in these games and activities stand a chance to win food coupons or discount coupons, making community participation both fun and beneficial.
By intertwining waste management education with cultural festivities, the Patna Municipal Corporation aims to instill a sense of responsibility among residents towards keeping their city clean. With its multifaceted programs, the Chakachak Sanitation Center promises to add another layer of significance to the Durga Puja celebrations this year.
