OREANDA-NEWS. May 03, 2011. Reiterating its commitment towards sustainability, Tata Power, India’s largest integrated private utility, joined hands with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) and launched an 'anti-plastic campaign' in Belgaum.

As a part of the campaign, activities were conducted at two different locations in the city, ie, Shivalaya Temple, Ramteertha Nagar, on April 19, 2011, and Shri Sai Mandir, Vantamuri, on April 21, 2011. These activities were undertaken with the primary aim of raising awareness on the ill-effects of excessive use of plastic bags on the already overburdened environment.

Several people from the city gathered to pledge their support to this campaign. Enthusiastic employees of Tata Power also volunteered in distributing jute bags to discourage people from using numerous plastic carry bags for their day-to-day shopping. A total of 314 jute bags were distributed among the people present at both the locations.

Speaking on the community development initiatives, Balaraja Bhat, head, Belgaum plant, Tata Power, said, “Tata Power believes in community development and constantly endeavours to contribute through different initiatives around its areas of operation. It is overwhelming and motivating for us to see the wholehearted support from the people for this 'anti-plastic campaign'. We hope to conduct many such programmes, thereby ensuring a healthier and happier community.”

Adding further Mr Vasudeva, environment officer, KSPCB, Belgaum, said, “We are happy that Tata Power has taken cognisance of the issue and initiated this campaign to minimise the use of plastic bags. We are sure many such programmes will benefit the environment, and in turn the society at large.”

This programme was an outcome of a survey conducted to assess the immediate requirements of the locals, and accordingly design community initiative programmes focused on environment, education, and infrastructure for the people living around the Belgaum power plant.

The company has assigned a team of volunteers, who are committed to such social initiatives. Ashok Gotkhindi, an employee of Tata Power, has taken the lead to educate the people present, on plastic being an environmental hazard. Similarly, Mr Puttaraju, deputy environmental officer, makes a point of being present at such occasion for addressing the gathering.