At a time when there is so much buzz around enforcing plastic ban in towns and cities, a village in Nuapada has hit upon a unique idea to shun the use of plastic containers in social functions, conventions, and meetings.
Residents of Kurrumunda village in Bhaleswar gram panchayat have come up with a novel concept called ‘bartan bank’ to tackle plastic waste and promote sustainable practices. The bartan bank allows anyone to borrow utensils for ceremonies and events, such as weddings and pujas, by paying a nominal fee, regardless of the quantity of utensils used. The collected money is then managed by a village committee.
Golaram Patel, a villager, expressed satisfaction with the new system and assured that the utensils are properly cleaned after each use.
The bartan bank in Kurrumunda village offers an extensive range of utensils, including cooking utensils, plates, cutlery, tumblers, and even bell metal plates for serving elders or VIPs. All the utensils are made of steel, making them durable and reusable.
With a population of 450, Kurrumunda is one of the smaller villages in the panchayat. The establishment of the bartan bank cost around Rs 75,000, which was funded by the village’s own resources. Saroj Devi Agarwal, the sarpanch of Bhaleswar gram panchayat, revealed that they aim to set up a bartan bank in each village under their jurisdiction, requiring approximately Rs 2 lakh for villages with a larger population.
The initiative reflects the villagers’ commitment to environmental protection, as plastic waste has been causing harm to their land and livestock. Plastic waste often leads to barren land and poses a threat to cattle when inadvertently consumed. The bartan bank is expected to significantly reduce single-use plastic waste in the area.
The innovative approach taken by Kurrumunda village has garnered attention and appreciation from many. By implementing the bartan bank, they have not only addressed the issue of plastic waste but also promoted a sense of community participation and responsibility towards the environment.
In conclusion, the bartan bank in Kurrumunda village is a shining example of how communities can come together to tackle environmental challenges. The initiative not only provides a practical solution to reduce plastic waste but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility. As more villages across the country explore similar ideas, the fight against plastic pollution takes a positive leap forward.
