Amarnath Yatra: HUDD launches initiative to achieve zero landfill waste

Srinagar, Aug 07: The Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD) has launched a pioneering initiative to achieve zero landfill waste during the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2024. This ambitious goal is aimed at making the pilgrimage a model of sustainability, not only reducing waste generation but also promoting recycling and environmental responsibility.
The initiative, directed by HUDD in collaboration with Swaaha, has implemented extensive measures to reduce waste generation, including awareness campaigns, sustainable kits, waste segregation practices, and digital tools to engage pilgrims in waste management practices.
Mandeep Kaur, Commissioner Secretary, HUDD, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Our goal is to set a precedent for future pilgrimages and other large-scale tourism events. By aiming for zero landfill, we are not only protecting the pristine nature of the yatra route but also instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among the pilgrims.”
The sustainable kits distributed to pilgrims include reusable containers, cloth bags, and biodegradable items, reducing reliance on single-use plastics. Kiosks manned by volunteers provide guidance on waste segregation and offer these kits.
The integration of technology has also played a crucial role in this initiative. The YatraMitra app and the ZeroWasteYatra.com website provide real-time updates, guidelines, and maps, helping pilgrims stay informed about waste disposal points and eco-friendly practices.
The response from pilgrims has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the efforts to keep the Yatra route clean and have expressed their appreciation for the sustainable kits and technology-enabled initiatives.
The initiative also includes extensive waste segregation practices, with dedicated bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste and regular waste collection drives. Composting units have been set up to process organic waste, further reducing the burden on landfills.
The collaborative efforts of HUDD and Swaaha have set the stage for a transformative pilgrimage experience, paving the way for sustainable practices in future events. By aiming for zero landfill waste, the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2024 is not only preserving the natural beauty of the yatra route but also promoting environmental responsibility among pilgrims.