Hyderabad: A new and innovative idea was introduced during the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2024. Rag pickers were involved in the event to help manage waste and also earn some money.
Marathons, no matter how well organized, often generate a lot of waste. This includes food wrappers, packaging, goodie bags, and plastic water bottles left behind by participants and spectators. Understanding this issue, the Hyderabad Runners Society decided to do something different this year.
They included ten rag pickers—seven women and three men—in the marathon. These individuals played an important role by collecting and sorting the plastic waste. They ensured that the plastic waste was sent to recycling centers. They also separated wet waste and took the dry waste with them, which they could sell for extra income.
This initiative not only helped in keeping the environment clean but also gave the rag pickers a sense of pride and belonging in such a large event. Many participants appreciated the organizers for making an effort towards inclusivity and sustainability by involving rag pickers, who are often overlooked but play a crucial role in waste management.
Rag pickers are usually unrecognized and unpaid, yet they are vital to India’s waste management and recycling systems. They recycle nearly 20% of the country’s waste but still face discrimination and lack social security.
Recognizing the hard realities of their lives, race director Rajesh Vetcha suggested involving rag pickers in this year’s marathon. This idea was put into action by Venkat Ankam from the sustainability and waste management team of Hyderabad Runners.
The rag pickers involved in the event were from Singareni Colony near Saroornagar, one of the largest slum areas in Hyderabad. On the day of the race, they arrived at 3:30 am and were provided with T-Shirts and breakfast. They worked energetically, collecting, sorting, and packing waste until 9 am.
This positive experience has inspired plans to provide more assistance to these rag pickers, marking the beginning of a long-term commitment to uplifting their community.
