Environmentalists are expressing concern over the indiscriminate disposal of catering waste near forest areas in Mangaluru. This improper waste disposal is posing significant threats to delicate ecosystems, resulting in pollution, habitat degradation, and potential harm to wildlife.
Led by environmentalist Jeeth Milan Roche, the Vana Charitable Trust initiated a unique forest conservation project in Kanthavara to address these issues. Roche emphasized the challenges faced during cleanup efforts, particularly in areas where waste is dumped from elevated points into narrow valleys. Volunteers, including those from St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, recently collaborated to clear a truckload of catering waste from Palladka panchayat limits on February 25.
Despite their efforts, Roche expressed disappointment at the discovery of an equivalent amount of catering waste deposited in the same location on March 3. The mixing of wet and dry waste further complicates the issue. Roche emphasized the urgent need to break this cycle to prevent adverse effects on wildlife and escalating human-animal conflicts in the area.
Volunteers from Shree Devi College joined in a subsequent cleanup effort, but Roche stressed the importance of putting an end to this ongoing problem. The Vana Charitable Trust plans to submit a memorandum to the forest department, urging strict action against violators. Roche highlighted the recurring issue of encountering plastic water bottles, glass liquor bottles, plastic, and food waste during cleanup drives near forest areas. He warned of potential river pollution if such waste is not promptly addressed.
A forest department official noted that the panchayat must take action against such activities, emphasizing that no dumping was found inside the forest areas during their investigation. The ongoing efforts aim to raise awareness and collaborate with authorities to ensure the sustainable preservation of local ecosystems.
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