Three Tons of Plastic Bottles collect During Sri Pada Season

The Maskeliya District Council announced a significant achievement today, revealing that within the first three months of the 2023–2024 Sri Pada season, they have amassed three tons of plastic bottles discarded by pilgrims visiting the sacred site.

Secretary S. Rajaweeran highlighted the installation of garbage bins along the pilgrimage route to encourage proper disposal, yet lamented the disregard of some pilgrims who continue to litter the environment with plastic waste.

Despite efforts to educate pilgrims about proper waste disposal, many still fail to adhere to instructions, particularly regarding the disposal of raw food items.

The collected plastic bottles are destined for recycling at the garbage center in Nallathanniya, where they will be sold to the private sector. In addition to managing waste, the Council is addressing the pressing issue of drinking water scarcity in the Nallathanniya area exacerbated by the current extremely dry weather conditions, with discussions underway with the Water Supply Board to find a solution.