Collector’s Unique Message at Patalganga: Prasad Served in ‘Utensil Bank’ Dishes, Say No to Plastic

Boden, June 13,: In a significant step towards environmental protection, cleanliness, and the creation of a plastic-free society, the Nuapada district administration launched a large-scale enforcement drive against Single-Use Plastic (SUP) across the district on Saturday. Under the leadership of Collector Madhusudan Das, special raids were conducted in Boden Market and the famous Patalganga religious shrine. During the drive, inspections were carried out at various shops, hotels, and commercial establishments in the Boden area. Officials seized 19.5 kilograms of banned single-use plastic materials and collected a fine of ₹5,000 from violators. During the inspection, illegally stored excise-related materials were also detected in a local hotel. The seized materials were handed over to the Excise Department for further legal action. Acting on the Collector’s instructions, eight Swachh Teams conducted simultaneous raids across all blocks and NAC areas of the district. In the district-wide operation, more than 100 kilograms of banned plastic materials were seized, while fines exceeding ₹50,000 were collected. The campaign has given fresh momentum to the district’s efforts against plastic pollution. A major highlight of the drive was witnessed at the Patalganga shrine, where Collector Madhusudan Das sat on the ground alongside devotees and consumed prasad using utensils provided under the district administration’s “Utensil Bank” initiative. His simple yet environmentally conscious gesture drew appreciation from devotees and local residents alike. The initiative promotes the use of reusable utensils as an alternative to plastic and serves as a strong message in favor of sustainable practices. The raid was attended by Boden BDO Chinmaya Sagar, members of the district Swachh Team including Shiva Prasad Swain, Partha Sarathi Dora, Harekrushna Hansda, District Coordinator Anil Lenka, Block Coordinator Heramba Biswal, and officials and staff from various departments. The district administration has warned that strict action will be taken against establishments found using banned plastic materials in the future. Measures such as disconnection of electricity and water supply and even sealing of establishments may be enforced against repeat violators. The administration’s firm stance and awareness-driven initiatives have been widely welcomed by the public. Many believe that the campaign marks an important milestone in the journey towards building a plastic-free Nuapada and promoting environmental responsibility across the district.