Prayagraj Municipal Corporation Launches Eco-Friendly Holika Dahan Initiative
In a significant move to promote environmentally responsible celebrations and curb the widespread cutting of green trees during Holi, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation (PMC) has introduced an innovative initiative to organize eco-friendly Holika Dahan across the city this year. The civic body has decided to distribute cow dung cakes in all wards to be used for community bonfires instead of traditional wood.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
Officials explained that the move was planned in response to the large-scale felling of trees witnessed every year ahead of Holika Dahan. Residents often cut green branches and entire trees for burning, practices that not only damage urban greenery but also lead to excessive smoke emissions. These emissions adversely impact air quality and public health, creating significant environmental concerns during the festival period.
Distribution and Procurement Details
Under this comprehensive initiative, nearly 1,000 cow dung cakes will be distributed in each of the city's 100 wards. These dung cakes, locally known as kande or upla, are being procured from multiple sources:
- Cattle rearers within urban areas
- Villages located on the outskirts of the city
Municipal teams have already begun procurement operations to ensure timely distribution before the festival commences. According to officials, separate teams were constituted at every zonal office to implement the plan effectively. One team is coordinating with local cow owners and dairy operators within the city, while another was deployed in nearby rural areas to arrange adequate quantities of dried cow dung cakes.
Environmental Benefits and Expected Outcomes
The civic body believes that dung cakes offer several advantages over traditional wood burning:
- More efficient burning compared to green wood
- Comparatively less smoke production
- Reduced air pollution during Holi festivities
Authorities also expect the initiative to discourage indiscriminate tree cutting and contribute substantially to the conservation of the city's green cover. The distribution will be carried out in wards under the supervision of elected corporators, encouraging residents to conduct collective Holika Dahan at designated public locations rather than individual, potentially harmful practices.
Official Statements and Future Vision
Mayor Umesh Chandra Ganesh Kesarwani emphasized that the initiative reflects the municipal corporation's commitment to balancing traditional celebrations with environmental protection. He added that the civic body is continuously working toward improving urban environmental practices and promoting sustainable festival celebrations that honor cultural traditions while protecting natural resources.
This proactive approach by the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation represents a model for other cities facing similar environmental challenges during festival seasons, demonstrating how traditional practices can be adapted to modern environmental concerns without sacrificing cultural significance.
