PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun
Officials of the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) stressed on the importance of mitigating air pollution and segregating waste before disposal. They said this during a workshop organised by the MCD on Monday under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) at Manav Bharti International School.
Addressing the gathering, chief municipal health officer Dr Avinasgh Khanna explained the importance of separating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste at the source. He said that proper segregation at the household level can significantly improve waste processing and reduce the burden on landfill sites. Stress was also laid on the growing problem of single-use plastic and its impact on health, drainage systems and the urban environment. The plastic waste often chokes drains, leading to waterlogging, especially during the monsoon, Khanna said.
Addressing the students, Khanna said that improving air quality and sanitation in cities like Dehradun requires behavioural change and active public participation. He encouraged students to adopt responsible habits in their daily lives and spread awareness among their families and neighbourhoods. The initiative is part of MCD’s wider outreach efforts under NCAP, a Central government programme aimed at reducing air pollution levels in cities through awareness, better waste management and emission control, Khanna stated.
Khanna added that schools are an important platform for spreading awareness, as students can play a key role in influencing behaviour at home and in their communities.
