Make Medaram jatara plastic-free

Medaram: With a tough task ahead of him, a couple of days before the commencement of biennial Sammakka-Saralammajatara, the in-charge District Collector RV Karnan has himself got down to business crisscrossing the streets of Medaram village that is teeming with pre-jatara devotees.

Riding on a bike, Karnan visited every nook and corner of the jatara to spread the message – ‘plastic free jatara’. Explaining the ill-effects, he appealed to all the shop owners and vendors not use and sell the plastic bags. He told them to use jute or paper bags instead of using plastic bags.

Karnan said that the Forest Department has been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring adequate supply of jute bags. This apart, the Collector said they made plates made of paper and leaves available for the pilgrims. It may be noted here that the administration already issued orders banning the sale and use of plastic bags at the jatara.

The administration also formed a 250-member green core volunteer team to create awareness about the protection of environment among the people. The green core team also spoke to traders advising them to avoid plastic bags.

The Collector who inspected the measures being taken for the sanitation gave instructions to the sectorial officials to ensure the jatara precincts clean. He was accompanied by Integrated Tribal Development Agency project officer Chakradhar and other officials.