Telangana pushes plastic free drive at Medaram jatra
HYDERABAD: The countdown has begun for the Medaram Maha Jatara, Asia’s largest tribal congregation. With over two crore devotees expected, officials face a major challenge in managing sanitation and plastic waste in the forest shrine area.
Plastic threat to forest ecosystem
Every jatra leaves behind a heavy plastic footprint, posing risks to the environment and wildlife. During the last edition, around 12,000 metric tonnes of waste were generated, nearly half of it plastic. With higher footfall expected this year, waste volumes could rise further.
Environmental experts warn that plastic used during the jatra contaminates soil, water and air, upsetting ecological balance. In response, the state government has decided to organise this year’s Medaram jatra as a plastic-free event to protect forest sanctity and biodiversity.
Soil, water and air at risk
The sacred Jampanna Vagu, revered by devotees, is increasingly choked with plastic waste. Shampoo sachets, soap covers and water bottles discarded during ritual baths obstruct water flow, while toxic chemicals leach into the stream, threatening aquatic life.
Plastic plates, cups and covers dumped on the ground remain for years without decomposing, killing earthworms and microorganisms. Experts say plastic layers prevent rainwater from percolating into the soil, depriving tree roots of moisture and increasing the risk of forest dieback.
In some areas, accumulated plastic waste is burnt, releasing toxic gases such as dioxins and furans into the air. This affects the health of both pilgrims and local tribal communities, while foul odour degrades air quality.
As Medaram lies in a dense forest zone, deer, monkeys and other wildlife move freely. Forest officials report incidents of animals ingesting food waste wrapped in plastic, leading to intestinal blockages and deaths. In the Tadvai and Eturnagaram wildlife sanctuaries, several animals have reportedly fallen ill due to plastic ingestion.
Waste transport to bio plants
During the previous jatra, over 12,000 metric tonnes of waste were shifted to dumping yards, including 400–500 tonnes of plastic. Officials estimate that each visitor generates about 500 grams of waste. With over two crore pilgrims expected, total waste could exceed 20,000 tonnes.
Plastic glasses, plates, liquor bottles and beer bottles account for a significant share. To manage this, the government has deployed 10,000 sanitation workers in round-the-clock shifts, supported by tractors, JCBs and dozers.
Waste from sacrificial chickens and goats will be transported to bio plants for scientific disposal to prevent stench. Chemical sprays will be used in washrooms and toilets, with daily fogging planned. Phenyl and other disinfectants will also be used.
Despite these measures, officials stress that a plastic free Medaram is impossible without public cooperation. Forest officials have appealed to devotees not to bring plastic carry bags and instead use cloth bags.
Should Sabarimala model be adopted?
Officials are considering replicating the plastic control model followed at Sabarimala, where plastic is strictly regulated despite massive pilgrim turnout. Plastic bags and bottles are seized during vehicle checks and alternatives are provided.
If similar strict checks are enforced at Medaram, officials believe a plastic-free jatra is achievable. Environmental experts recommend a complete ban on single-use plastic and widespread awareness campaigns promoting cloth and jute bags.
20 dumping yards set up
To manage waste, 20 dumping yards have been set up around Medaram. Segregation of wet and dry waste remains a challenge, prompting special arrangements with local agencies.
The Pollution Control Board has stepped in to prevent pollution from meat waste generated during animal sacrifices. Such waste will be collected separately and sent to bio plants. Offerings at platforms including gold, turmeric, sarees, jackets, coconuts and other materials will also be segregated and sent for recycling.
Devotees’ cooperation vital for plastic free Medaram
The government’s goal is to conduct the Medaram Maha Jatara without plastic. Officials urge devotees to act responsibly, avoid discarding plastic bottles and covers along forest routes and jatra premises, and bring steel or copper bottles instead of plastic.
Water kiosks and RO plants have been set up at Jampanna Vagu and queue lines. Authorities aim to ensure that Medaram remains as clean after the jatra as it was before. Awareness campaigns are being conducted through public address systems and volunteers.
“Plastic free Medaram is possible only with devotees’ cooperation,” said district panchayat officer Venkaiah.
