BMC Marks World Environment Day with Rally, Cleanliness Drive

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) observed World Environment Day on Wednesday with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution and promoting environmental sustainability.

An early morning rally was organised by the civic body, which began at Indira Gandhi Park and concluded at the Market Building area. The rally was led by Deputy Mayor Manjulata Kanhar, BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Bank of Baroda General Manager Swapna Bandopadhyaya, and local corporator Asia Begum.

Over 250 participants took part in the rally and pledged to eliminate plastic pollution, conserve energy and water, promote cleanliness, and contribute to enhancing the city’s green cover. Following the rally, a mass cleanliness drive was conducted in and around the Market Building area.

During the drive, awareness messages related to dengue prevention were broadcast, and larvicide was sprayed in potential breeding sites. Cotton carry bags were also distributed to the public, and a kiosk was set up to spread the message “Say no to plastic carry bags.”

Highlighting the civic body’s green initiatives, BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil announced the launch of a new plantation drive. “Last year, we implemented Miyawaki plantations in six areas of the city with great success. This year, we plan to expand the initiative to 20 more locations,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Bank of Baroda’s General Manager Swapna Bandopadhyaya urged citizens to adopt biodegradable alternatives and play an active role in eliminating plastic use in the city.