Chhath Puja, a sacred festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiyaattracts millions of devotees who gather near the water bodies to offer prayers and perform rituals. While the festival symbolizes a deep connection between people and nature, it also brings to light a growing environmental problem: the waste generated during the festivities, which can have a significant impact on aquatic ecosystems.

Chhath Puja celebrates the life, energy and beauty of nature. By embracing sustainable practices and protecting aquatic ecosystems, we honor the spirit of the festival while preserving the natural world for future generations.

Keeping waterways clean not only respects the sanctity of Chhath but also protects this environment. As we look to the upcoming celebrations, let’s focus on environmental stewardship, combining tradition and sustainability to protect aquatic life.

While many NGOs are active in this cause, the Aahwahan Foundation has made notable progress, turning seven beaches into plastic-free zones and cleaning up another 17. Public awareness and participation are crucial – together, we can make beaches and the environment greener.

In the wake of Chhath Puja, it has also become essential to raise awareness about the need to protect marine and aquatic life by ensuring that these water bodies remain healthy.

Indiatoday spoke to Braja Kishore Pradhan, Founder/CEO of Aahwahan Foundation to get more information on this.

Chhath Puja can have a significant impact on the environment, especially due to the practice of placing offerings in water bodies. Although many of these offerings, such as fruit and flowers, are biodegradable, they still accumulate and contribute to organic waste.

In addition, non-biodegradable materials such as plastic bags and synthetic decorations often find their way into water, posing a threat to delicate aquatic ecosystems. This can have adverse effects on aquatic life.

Water contamination: Accumulation of excess supply can reduce oxygen levels in the water, threatening fish and other organisms that depend on oxygen-rich environments.

Toxicity from non-biodegradable wastes: Plastics and other non-biodegradable materials persist in the ecosystem, putting aquatic animals at risk of entanglement.

Disturbance of the ecosystem: The introduction of foreign substances into water bodies can disrupt the natural balance of nutrients, thereby negatively influencing the growth and survival of aquatic species.

AWARENESS INITIATIVES

Organizing community clean-up actions: Often NGOs, volunteers and environmental activists take the initiative to clean roads around rivers, lakes and other water bodies. The post-festival festivities are over.

Getting involved in or supporting these actions is a tangible way that individuals can contribute to water conservation efforts. Thus motivating the community to take responsibility for protecting the environment.

Arrangement of waste collection and separation stations: Designated waste collection stations with separate bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste can encourage proper disposal.

When waste is separated, biodegradable materials can be composted, while plastics and other non-biodegradable materials can be sent for recycling. Local authorities can also organize regular waste collections to keep places of worship clean and reduce pollution risks.

INTRODUCING WASTE PURCHASING AND RECYCLING

Innovative programs where people are encouraged to return used materials for recycling can reduce the burden on local waste systems. Buy-back initiatives, where small rewards are offered for returning non-biodegradable waste, can encourage proper disposal and promote a circular approach to waste management.

Social media educational campaigns and outreach programs: Community workshops, posters and social media campaigns can educate the public about the importance of clean water bodies and their role in supporting biodiversity.

By highlighting the impact of pollution on aquatic life, these efforts can inspire collective action, encouraging sustainable practices and encouraging environmental responsibility during festivals.

Involvement of local schools and colleges: Young people have the power to drive change. Involving schools and colleges in awareness programs helps to inculcate environmental responsibility early. Students can learn about the impact of pollution on water bodies, motivating them to engage in cleanup efforts and adopt green habits.