Chabeel stalls highlight plastic waste concerns despite efforts to promote cleanliness

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun

As Chabeel stalls were set up across Dehradun on the occasion of Nirjala Ekadashi on Thursday, concerns were raised over plastic waste and littering near several stalls. While many volunteers arranged refreshments for the public, used plastic cups were seen scattered along roadsides in some areas, raising questions about cleanliness during such community service activities. Chabeel stalls were set up at several locations including Nehru Colony, Dharampur, Araghar, Ballupur, ISBT and other busy intersections. Large numbers of people stopped at the stalls throughout the day to consume the sweetened drink being distributed by volunteers. Though some organisers had placed dustbins near the service points, many people threw used cups on the roadside. Locals said that while the initiative is appreciated, focus should also be laid on preventing littering and plastic waste.

Some volunteers adopted alternative methods like a stall in Nehru Colony where organisers distributed the drink in reusable steel glasses instead of disposables. Volunteer Rashmi Joshi said that even when dustbins are provided, many people continue to throw plastic cups on the road. “Keeping cleanliness in mind, we decided to use steel glasses, which can be reused and also help reduce waste,” she said.

Dustbins were placed at another chabeel stall organised by Sonu Yadav and his family members though plastic cups were still found scattered in and around the spot. Yadav said that despite making arrangements for cleanliness, many people did not use the dustbins. Local Alok Singh said that while chabeel is a positive community initiative, littering often becomes a problem.