Bhubaneswar: Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), one of India’s leading FMCG companies, partners with the District Administration and Puri Municipality for a ‘used PET Bottle-Free’ Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, with a holistic waste management initiative. Committed to circularity, the drive is estimated to collect over 50 lakhused PET bottles.
The Rath Yatra, the largest and oldest worldwide, sees a footfall of lakhs of devotees and tourists. This influx places significant responsibility on corporates and the District administration to ensure a clean environment for the pilgrims. As a joint responsibility, HCCB, the District Collector, and Puri Municipality have launched a waste collection initiative for used PET bottles. The drive is in collaboration with The Odisha State Pollution Control Board, Odisha Development Management Program (ODMP), as well as The Y4D Foundation and Foundation for Climate Protection (FCP).
To strengthen the collection infrastructure for used PET bottles during this period, collection mechanisms are placed along the Rath Yatra route, strategically located at critical points such as Badadanda, Bholanath Vidya Peeth, The Railway Station, The Bus Stand, The Sea Beach Area, and Grand Road. Multiple help desks have been set up to provide continuous assistance to event attendees, operating 24/7 to collect and transport waste to the warehouse. The collected bottles will undergo a thorough segregation and scientific recycling process, reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability. Over 1000 volunteers are actively involved in the sustainable waste management drive, raising awareness and working towards environmental conservation.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability Officer, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, said,”Celebrating the heritage of Puri, we are honoured to contribute towards waste management during the festival. The ‘Used PET Bottle-Free’ initiative, enabling the collection and recycling of over 50lakh used PET bottles, underscores our commitment to circularity and sustainability. With the support of our partners and local authorities, we continue our dedication towards responsible waste management and environmental stewardship.”
Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) & Public Enterprise, Odisha said, “We appreciate Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages for ensuring a ‘Used PET Bottle-Free’ Rath Yatra in Puri. This initiative, promoting circularity and recycling practices, sets a benchmark for corporate responsibility in sustainable development. With more than a million devotees, the impact of this initiative is impressive, not only in preserving the sanctity and cleanliness of this grand festival but also in leading the way for environmental stewardship. HCCB’s commitment is a shining example for others to follow, showcasing how corporate actions can align beautifully with our cultural and spiritual heritage.”
Shri Siddharth Shankar Swain, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate Puri said,”The collaboration for waste management at Rath Yatra aligns with our focus on sustainability and recycling. Taking collective responsibility with Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, Puri Municipality, and partners, strategic collection points and dedicated systems ensures a clean festival, leading the way in environmental management. This joint effort promotes circularity and sets a precedent for corporate collaboration in sustainable development across the state.”
