Bengaluru: Cities across the region are gearing up for a cleaner and greener Diwali season with the launch of the Swachh Diwali Shubh Diwali campaign, featuring a diverse range of activities and initiatives.
In Karnataka, the state has taken a step towards Swachh Diwali by setting up Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (RRR) centre kiosks in open fields, marketplaces, and other high footfall areas. These kiosks encourage citizens to donate their old, unused items and to participate in the Swachh Diwali Signature campaign.
The RRR Centres have been beautified with art crafted by school children, along with eco-friendly products like diyas made by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).
To promote community involvement, religious places have been urged to create Shubh Diwali Rangolis using natural flowers, leaves, or colours. QR code standees have been strategically placed outside religious sites, markets, bus stops, shopping malls, and theatres, to simplify the registration of citizen pledges.
To boost the use of eco-friendly and locally made products, special markets, in collaboration with Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), have been organised. These markets showcase a variety of eco-friendly Diwali products, including decorations, gifts, and sweets, emphasising the importance of responsible consumer choices.
Unique Initiatives by ULBs Enhance Civic Engagement
Several Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) have initiated unique programs to enhance civic engagement during the Diwali season. In Hassan, the Hasanamba Temple, which opens its doors only once a year during Diwali, has become a focal point for devotees.
In an innovative move, the Hassan civic body has installed QR code stands at the temple, inviting devotees to join the Swachh Diwali Signature campaign for a clean and green Diwali. This initiative aims to foster a sense of togetherness and shared purpose in achieving garbage-free cities.
Art and Awareness Spread Across Cities
In addition to the organised initiatives, sand art installations have captured public attention at the famous tourist beach in Udupi. Meanwhile, Pourakarmikas in Vijayanagara have been distributing earthen diyas in slum areas to raise awareness about the environmental impact of firecrackers.
These efforts, combined with the conscious participation of citizens, religious institutions, ULBs, civic bodies, and the government, have created an environment that is instrumental towards Swachh Diwali and eco-friendly celebrations.
