Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, taking place in an ecologically fragile Himalayan region, emphasizes a robust waste management system to minimize environmental impact. For 2025, the procedures for dry waste management are expected to follow the established “zero-landfill” policy, with a strong focus on segregation, collection, and responsible disposal or recycling.
Here are the procedures for dry waste management anticipated for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025:
- Source Segregation (The Foundation):
Mandatory Separation: All participants, including pilgrims, langar operators, shopkeepers, and service providers, are strictly mandated to segregate dry waste (non-biodegradable materials) from wet (organic) waste at the source.
Dedicated Bins: Color-coded bins (typically blue or green for dry waste, and often red or black for wet/organic waste) are strategically placed at all camps, resting points, medical aid centers, and along the entire Yatra route. Pilgrims are educated and encouraged to use these designated bins.
Awareness Campaigns: Extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns are run through various mediums (signage, announcements, volunteers, local guides) to raise awareness among pilgrims about the importance of waste segregation and proper disposal of dry waste, especially plastics.
- Collection and Transportation:
Dedicated Workforce: A large contingent of sanitation workers and volunteers are deployed in shifts along the entire Yatra track and at all camp sites. Their primary responsibility includes collecting segregated dry waste from the designated bins.
Specialized Collection Vehicles: Twin-compartment vehicles or separate vehicles for dry waste are used to collect and transport the segregated dry waste from collection points to transfer stations or processing units. This prevents mixing of waste streams.
Regular Clearance: Bins are cleared frequently to prevent overflow and maintain hygiene, especially at high-traffic points and base camps.
- Processing and Disposal of Dry Waste:
Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs): At key locations, potentially near base camps like Baltal and Nunwan, Material Recovery Facilities are established. Here, collected dry waste is further sorted to separate different types of recyclables (e.g., PET bottles, plastic bags, metal cans, glass).
Baling Units: Baling machines are used to compact recyclable materials like plastic bottles and cardboard, reducing their volume for easier transportation to recycling centers in the plains.
Transportation to Recycling Units: Sorted and baled recyclable dry waste is then transported to authorized recycling units located outside the sensitive zone, usually in Jammu and Kashmir or neighboring states. The aim is to ensure that minimal dry waste remains in the ecologically fragile region.
Non-Recyclable Waste: For dry waste that cannot be recycled, efforts are made to transport it to scientifically managed landfills in the plains. The “zero-landfill” policy for the Yatra aims to drastically reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills within the region itself.
Waste-to-Energy (Potential): While not explicitly stated for all dry waste, there might be long-term considerations or pilot projects for waste-to-energy conversion for certain non-recyclable dry waste fractions, though this is more complex in such a remote area.
- Special Focus on Plastic Waste:
Ban on Single-Use Plastics: There is a strict ban on single-use plastics along the entire Yatra route. This includes plastic bottles, plastic carry bags, disposable plastic cutlery, and thermocol items. Pilgrims are encouraged to carry reusable water bottles and bags.
Checkpoints and Enforcement: Authorities and volunteers are stationed at entry points and along the route to check for and discourage the use of banned plastic items.
Water Refill Stations: Efforts are made to provide potable water refill stations to reduce the reliance on bottled water.
- Monitoring and Enforcement:
Regular Inspections: Dedicated teams conduct regular inspections of camps, langars, and shops to ensure compliance with waste segregation and disposal norms.
Penalties: Penalties or fines may be imposed for non-compliance with waste management guidelines.
Technology Integration: Use of technologies like QR codes for monitoring waste collection points or providing feedback on cleanliness might be implemented to improve efficiency and accountability.
