Mahakumbh 2025 has become a platform for several innovative environmental initiatives, with the ‘Jal Kalash’ initiative emerging as a major attraction at Arail Ghat, Sector 24, Nishad Raj Marg. This initiative aims to combat plastic pollution by collecting and recycling used plastic water bottles from the Kumbh area, ensuring they do not harm the environment. So far, over 20,000 plastic bottles have been collected through this campaign.
Launched under the leadership of G. Ashok Kumar, former Director General of the Namami Gange Mission, the 20-day campaign is spearheaded by Development Alternatives in collaboration with the HCL Foundation. Running from February 1 to February 20, 2025, the initiative is also receiving active support from Adarsh Seva Samiti and Mangal Bhumi Foundation at the local level.
Addressing the initiative, G. Ashok Kumar stated, “To make Mahakumbh a Green Kumbh, we have taken this step to collect plastic bottles used in the Kumbh area. The Jal Kalash symbolizes the need to prevent plastic waste from entering the Ganga, reinforcing the message that plastic pollution disrupts the river’s purity and flow.”
Environmental activist Rambabu Tiwari highlighted the collective responsibility in protecting the Ganga. Drawing parallels with the successful ‘Ek Thali Ek Thaila’ campaign, he emphasized that the Jal Kalash initiative is playing a crucial role in reducing plastic waste at the religious gathering. He commended Development Alternatives and the HCL Foundation for their efforts in promoting a cleaner and greener Mahakumbh.
Several volunteers, including Meera Devi, Arun Kumar, Raj, Rishika, Yashi, and Satish, are actively contributing to the success of this campaign, ensuring the preservation of the sacred river.
