Despite annual pledges to protect the environment on World Environment Day, observed every year on June 5, Jammu and Kashmir generates over 1,502 tons of plastic waste daily, culminating in an annual collection of 548,230 tons of waste.
A series of events were held across the Valley and globally to mark the occasion. A mega event was organized at the Islamic University of Science and Technology, which witnessed participation from officials of the Kashmir Pollution Control Board, environmental experts, faculty members, and a large number of students from various schools and colleges.
During the program, experts revealed that two municipal corporations and six municipal committees across Jammu and Kashmir are responsible for managing the disposal of 1,502 tons of waste daily. “However, due to the lack of modern technology and efficient waste management systems, this waste poses an increasing environmental threat to surrounding areas.”
The theme for this year’s World Environment Day was “Beat Plastic Pollution.” Participants at the event pledged to adopt environmentally responsible behaviour and to encourage others to do the same.
In his address, Principal Chief Secretary Dr. Rakesh Gupta spoke about the multiple challenges facing the environment today—including climate change, global warming, forest degradation, and other environmental crises that were unimaginable just decades ago. He noted that while the government is taking several steps to improve environmental cleanliness in Kashmir, these efforts can only succeed with active public participation.
Professor Ayaz Hassan Moon, Dean of Academic Affairs at Islamic University, highlighted the vital role of educational institutions in combating plastic pollution. He emphasized the urgent need to seriously explore alternatives to plastic. Other participants stressed the importance of preserving nature to maintain ecological balance, warning that life cannot thrive without a healthy environment, and that it is every individual’s responsibility to live in harmony with nature.
Although Minister for Environment and Forests Javed Ahmad Rana was scheduled to attend the event as the chief guest, he could not participate due to unforeseen commitments.
In a separate program held in Ganderbal, Director of School Education Kashmir, Dr. G.N. Yatoo, emphasized that one of the biggest global challenges today is environmental degradation. “Jammu and Kashmir is an ecologically fragile region. Even a slight environmental imbalance can have serious consequences,” Dr. Yatoo said.
He stressed the need for future generations to understand the importance of environmental preservation. “Especially in today’s context, the focus must be on eliminating single-use plastic. Viable alternatives are already available, and we must adopt them. Additionally, our water bodies, natural resources, and forests must be protected.
When people—especially students—are sensitized and made aware, they will understand how critical this issue is,” he added—(KNO)
