Agartala, July 15: Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha emphasized the comparable threats posed by plastic pollution and the drug menace to the sustainable development of Tripura.
Speaking at the ‘Plastic Mukta Tripura Abhijan’ program organized by the Tripura State Pollution Control Board, he appealed to the public to actively contribute to protecting the state from these twin evils.
Dr. Saha highlighted scientific evidence indicating that plastics contain approximately 13,000 chemicals, out of which 3,200 are highly detrimental to the environment and human health.
He acknowledged previous initiatives against plastic pollution but stressed that their success was limited due to insufficient public involvement. Therefore, he urged the people of Tripura to recognize the dangers of plastic pollution and foster public awareness similar to the efforts against drugs.
The Chief Minister envisioned a single-use plastic-free Tripura achievable through collective action and public engagement.
The program at the Town Hall saw the participation of Mayor of Agartala Municipal Corporation, Dipak Majumder, Chief Secretary JK Sinha, and other senior officials.
Numerous students from various schools and colleges also attended the event, showcasing their commitment to the cause.