318 sanitation workers deployed at Baltal base camp

Baltal, July 11: In a determined effort to preserve the ecological sanctity of the Himalayas during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, Jammu and Kashmir, in collaboration with Swaaha Resource Management Pvt. Ltd has launched a comprehensive waste management campaign at the Baltal base camp. A workforce of 318 sanitation workers has been deployed to handle the surge in waste generated by the influx of people there.As thousands of yatris make their spiritual journey, the camp witnesses a daily accumulation of solid and wet waste, including discarded plastic, bottles and food leftovers, to address this challenge, a well-coordinated system involving four waste collection vehicles has been put in place—two designated for dry waste such as plastics and bottles, and two for wet organic matter.“Waste first arrives at the processing point where it is carefully segregated,” said a member of the waste management team. “Dry waste is sorted and sent for recycling, while wet waste is treated on-site. Within four to five days, it is converted into nutrient-rich compost.”The initiative not only ensures eco-friendly disposal and minimizes the environmental impact of the pilgrimage but also generates temporary employment opportunities for local workers, he said.He further said the Yatra continuing in full swing, the sanitation teams are working round-the-clock to uphold hygiene standards and protect the fragile mountain environment. Meanwhile Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a clean, sacred atmosphere for devotees throughout the pilgrimage.