The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra takes place in an ecologically sensitive high-altitude region, and considerable efforts are made to ensure proper waste management, especially focusing on a “zero-landfill” initiative. Based on reports and past practices, here are the standard procedures for organic waste management expected to be adopted in Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025:
Core Principles for Organic Waste Management:
- Source Segregation: This is the most crucial step. Pilgrims, langar (community kitchen) operators, shopkeepers, and all service providers are mandated to segregate waste at the source into biodegradable (wet) and non-biodegradable (dry) categories. Twin bins (often color-coded) are installed at all camps, resting points, and along the yatra route for this purpose.
- Zero Landfill Policy: The ultimate goal is to minimize waste sent to landfills. This means maximizing the processing of collected waste.
Specific Procedures and Initiatives:
Composting of Wet Waste:
- Dedicated Facilities: Waste processing facilities, including compost pits and automatic waste-composting machines, are established at key locations along both the Baltal and Pahalgam axes (e.g., Nunwan, Chandanwari, Baltal).
- On-site Processing: Biodegradable waste generated at langars, dhabas, and camps is treated on-site using composting methods.
- Utilization: The compost generated is intended to be used as organic fertilizer, contributing to local agriculture or ecological restoration efforts.
- Dedicated Facilities: Waste processing facilities, including compost pits and automatic waste-composting machines, are established at key locations along both the Baltal and Pahalgam axes (e.g., Nunwan, Chandanwari, Baltal).
Collection and Transportation:
- Dedicated Workforce: A large number of sanitation workers are deployed (working in multiple shifts) to collect segregated waste from bins and facilities.
- Specialized Vehicles: Twin-compartment vehicles are used for efficient collection and transportation of segregated waste from collection points to processing facilities.
Langar and Food Waste Management:
- Menu Regulations: The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) issues a list of permitted and banned food items for langars to promote healthy eating and potentially reduce certain types of organic waste (e.g., highly processed or fried foods).
- Biodegradable Utensils: There is a push to introduce biodegradable plates and glasses (e.g., made from banana or other plant leaves) in langars to reduce plastic and non-biodegradable waste from food service.
- Menu Regulations: The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) issues a list of permitted and banned food items for langars to promote healthy eating and potentially reduce certain types of organic waste (e.g., highly processed or fried foods).
Human Waste Management:
- Portable and Eco-Friendly Toilets: A significant number of toilet seats, urinals, and bathing units are installed along the route and at camps. Many of these are eco-friendly portable toilets and bio-toilets.
- De-sludging and Treatment: De-sludging vehicles are deployed daily to manage septage from toilet facilities. Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) are operational at base camps (like Baltal and Nunwan) to treat wastewater/sewage scientifically. Compost pits are also provided for the processing of wet waste.
Awareness and Education:
- Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Activities: Volunteers and Swachhagrahis (cleanliness ambassadors) engage with pilgrims to educate them on proper waste disposal, the importance of segregation, and the “zero-landfill” policy.
- Signage: Informative signages are placed along the routes and at camps to guide pilgrims on waste disposal.
- Digital Tools: Initiatives like QR code-based feedback systems at toilet points and apps (e.g., YatraMitra) are used to gather feedback on cleanliness and provide guidelines on eco-friendly practices.
- Sustainable Kits: In some instances, pilgrims may be provided with sustainable kits that include reusable containers and cloth bags to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
- Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Activities: Volunteers and Swachhagrahis (cleanliness ambassadors) engage with pilgrims to educate them on proper waste disposal, the importance of segregation, and the “zero-landfill” policy.
Coordination and Monitoring:
- Multi-Agency Collaboration: Various government departments (e.g., Rural Development Department, Housing and Urban Development Department), Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Shrine Board, and local communities work in coordination.
- Real-time Monitoring: Control rooms and feedback systems are used for real-time monitoring of sanitation status and immediate redressal of complaints.
- Regular Reviews: Senior officials conduct regular tours and reviews to assess sanitation facilities and waste management progress.
- Multi-Agency Collaboration: Various government departments (e.g., Rural Development Department, Housing and Urban Development Department), Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Shrine Board, and local communities work in coordination.
Challenges and Continuous Improvement:
While these procedures are in place, the sheer volume of pilgrims and the challenging terrain make waste management a continuous effort. Past reports have highlighted issues like unscientific dumping by some contractors or individuals, and the need for stricter enforcement and consistent adherence to guidelines. The focus for 2025 is on further strengthening these practices and ensuring a truly “Swachh Amarnath Yatra” (Clean Amarnath Yatra).
