Karnal, January 6: In view of Swachh Survekshan 2025-26, the Karnal Municipal Corporation's Swachh Bharat Mission Urban team is continuously conducting Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to raise awareness among the city residents.
Under this initiative, the team visits various areas and schools daily to educate students about the 5 types of dustbins and the types of waste to be put in them, separating wet and dry waste, cleanliness, the harmful effects of single-use plastic, environmental pollution, and water conservation. This information was provided by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Vaishali Sharma.
She said that the Municipal Corporation's mascot, Sheru, also visits schools to raise awareness among children about cleanliness, so that the children can go home and educate their families and neighbors. During these visits, question-and-answer sessions are also conducted with the children. Children who give correct answers are encouraged with chocolates and other rewards.
Schools Moving Towards Zero Waste - She said that by conducting IEC activities in schools, they are being encouraged to move towards zero waste. So far, about 60 schools in the city have declared themselves zero-waste schools. These schools do not use single-use plastic, and compost is made from wet waste within the school premises. Other schools will also be declared zero-waste schools soon after conducting IEC activities.
Single-Use Plastic Ban - She said that single-use plastic has been banned in the municipal corporation area. Sanitation teams are continuously conducting raids in each zone regarding this. She issued a strict warning, stating that if any wholesaler, shopkeeper, or street vendor is found with single-use plastic, a fine of Rs. 500 to Rs. 25,000 can be imposed as per the rules.
Motivator Teams Conducting Door-to-Door Surveys - For public awareness, the Municipal Corporation's motivator teams are going door-to-door to encourage citizens to separate wet and dry waste. Waste collection is also being checked simultaneously. Feedback is also being collected from citizens regarding daily cleaning and waste collection.