Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the effective enforcement of the single-use plastic ban can only succeed through active public participation, awareness, and collective responsibility. Speaking at a state-level consultation workshop on World Tiger Day in Dehradun, CM Dhami asserted that government regulations alone are insufficient and urged citizens, tourists, and industries to turn the anti-plastic campaign into a mass movement.Balancing Ecology and EconomyAddressing the event organized by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board, Chief Minister Dhami highlighted the close relationship between forest preservation, wildlife conservation, and sustainable economic growth. He noted that safeguarding natural habitats directly benefits iconic wildlife like tigers and maintains nature's delicate balance.Threat to Wildlife & Rivers: Discarded single-use plastic poses severe risks to Uttarakhand's Himalayan ecosystem, polluting river sources like the Ganga and Yamuna, and harming wild animals that ingest plastic waste in forest areas.Protecting Natural Heritage: With major sanctuaries like the Corbett and Rajaji Tiger Reserves located in the state, curbing plastic pollution is vital for maintaining ecological integrity and protecting national heritage.Key Initiatives & Community Action PlanThe state government has outlined several targeted measures to reduce single-use plastic reliance, particularly across high-footfall tourist and pilgrimage hubs:Focus AreaGovernment & Community ActionChar Dham & Tourist RoutesSpecial cleanliness drives and stricter enforcement to prevent littering along pilgrimage and tourist corridors.Eco-Friendly AlternativesEncouraging residents and visitors to replace single-use plastic bags with reusable cloth and jute alternatives.Youth & Youth OutreachEngaging schools, colleges, self-help groups (SHGs), and Gram Sabhas to foster environmental stewardship among youth.Corporate ResponsibilityUrging industries to adopt sustainable, eco-friendly packaging and modern recycling technologies.Call to Responsible TourismWith millions of tourists and pilgrims visiting Uttarakhand annually, CM Dhami made a direct appeal to visitors to practice responsible tourism. He urged travelers to enjoy the state's natural beauty without leaving behind plastic waste or littering fragile mountain landscapes."If our forests remain safe, the entire ecology will prosper. When the entire ecology prospers, tigers will remain safe. We must ensure a steady balance between ecology and economy."— Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of UttarakhandBy combining administrative enforcement with grassroots participation, the Uttarakhand government aims to pave the way toward a cleaner, greener, and single-use plastic-free state.Also Read :- Lok Sabha Passes Stricter Anti-Paper Leak Bill Following NEET Exam Controversy
