The district administration and the District Suchitwa Mission (DSW) have scripted yet another success story in its pursuit of a clean environment by ensuring that the annual Malayattoor pilgrimage complies with the green protocol.
The ‘Clean Malayattoor Pilgrimage’ campaign got under way on Saturday. The annual pilgrimage held during the Lent season attracts devotees from across the State and outside, especially on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
The Ernakulam Angamaly diocese and the church authorities have taken a bold step to strictly adhere to the green protocol in the pilgrimage area. With intensive planning and better participation from stakeholders, the church has taken up measures to rectify the problems faced during the pilgrimage season last year. Discussions were initiated as early as in February involving the diocese, the church authorities, the district administration, the DSW, the Forest Department, Malayattoor panchayat and voluntary organisations.
‘Clean, Green Malayattoor programme’ is the motto of the campaign. Steps are being taken to implement a better waste reduction system, to create awareness about reducing plastic waste and to ensure responsible pilgrimage at Malayatoor Kurishumudi.
The District Collector has banned the use of plastic disposables and other non-biodegradable material. Eco-friendly banners bearing messages against the use of plastic have been placed along the pilgrim’s trail.
A green zone is being set up; sale of canned food has been banned; alternative water facilities are being arranged; water kiosks have been placed in different spots; and steel glasses are being provided.
Pilgrims bringing plastic bottles should pay ₹10 at the counter and get a sticker affixed on the bottle. The amount will be refunded on returning the sticker. Devotees offering annadanam must serve it in steel utensils.
Green volunteers have been selected from various Kudumbasree units and educational institutions, including St. Teresa’s College and St. Xavier’s College, to participate in the campaign.
Notices with ‘Green Malayattoor’ messages are being pasted on KSRSTC buses being operated to the pilgrim centre and at railway stations and bus depots in the district. Campaigns are also being run via social media, and audio and visual media.
