Srisailam Temple, a revered Shaiva pilgrimage site in Nandyal district of Andhra Pradesh, has taken a significant step towards environmental conservation by banning the use of plastic within its premises. The temple's Executive Officer, D. Peddiraju, announced the initiative aimed at transforming Srisailam into a plastic-free zone. This initiative includes a strict prohibition on plastic bottles and other disposable plastic items. To enforce this, temple authorities, along with the sanitation staff, have been actively removing plastic waste and inspecting vehicles to prevent the entry of plastic items into the area.
Local businesses, hotel operators, and devotees are encouraged to use paper bags, cloth bags, and jute bags instead of plastic. Alternatives like clay, steel, and copper vessels are recommended for water storage, replacing plastic water bottles. The temple has also installed multiple water purification systems to provide devotees with free mineral water, ensuring that the transition away from plastic is convenient for everyone. The temple authority is seeking full cooperation from all stakeholders to make this initiative a success, ensuring that Srisailam sets a benchmark in religious environmental responsibility.
