Hyderabad faces a growing issue with plastic waste, highlighted on World Environment Day. Environmentalists stress the urgent need to tackle this challenge. Despite a 2022 ban on single-use plastics (SUP), Hyderabad still produces 700 to 800 tons of plastic daily, according to the Pollution Control Board.
Activists argue that fines alone aren’t enough. Stronger actions are necessary to deter violators. Burning plastic is another major problem, worsening air quality.
Some activists criticize the state government’s inadequate efforts. Plastic bottles litter streets, and polythene bags block drains. Waste segregation remains insufficient.
Mohammed Abid Ali, a local environment advocate, notes that SUPs are still found in markets despite the ban. Previously, government officials actively raised awareness, but such initiatives have dwindled.
He emphasizes shared responsibility. Citizens should reduce plastic use, while governments need to enforce bans and support sustainable options. “Earth is our only home, not a landfill,” he states, urging collective action for a sustainable future.
Vedakumar, another environmentalist, calls for combined efforts from the government, industries, and citizens. He points out that despite the Telangana High Court banning plastics under 50 microns, their usage continues. He urges the government to find tangible alternatives.
Madhulika Choudhary, founder of Dhruvansh, highlights the difficulty of removing plastic from lakes. Some voluntary groups work on this, but few people cannot solve the problem alone. Plastic burning is rising, and awareness campaigns are rare. She believes government-led initiatives would encourage public participation, stressing that change requires community involvement.
