AP Secretariat to be completely plastic-free from Aug 15

Andhra Pradesh Government is keen on prohibiting the use of single use plastic completely from across the State as the enforcement will start from the State Secretariat on August 15.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said by October 2, all municipal corporations will implement this initiative, and by December, it will be enforced Statewide. Single-use plastics are already banned in government offices. We are distributing cloth bags through self-help groups. Nothing in this world is truly waste — value can be derived from everything. Tirupati, being a sacred pilgrimage destination, must remain clean. Visitors from across India and abroad come here, and maintaining cleanliness is essential to preserving our reputation,” he declared..

Speaking at the Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra Prava Vedika here, he called for eliminating plastic to protect the environment, warning that excessive plastic usage increases the risk of cancer.

As part of the Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra initiative, the Chief Minister visited the Integrated Waste Processing Centre at Thukivakam near Renigunta. He then proceeded to Tirupati, offered special prayers at the Kapileswara Swamy Temple, and joined sanitation workers in cleaning the temple premises. Later, he addressed the public at a Praja Vedika.

Speaking on Clean Andhra Mission, he expressed his joy at the enthusiasm shown by youth and said: “The youth are the true wealth of the nation. Wherever you go in the world, 30% of the population is our people. Seeing the students reminds me of my college days here in Tirupati. From a student to an MLA, and now for the fourth time as Chief Minister — this journey has been possible only due to the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. Every citizen must participate in achieving a clean Andhra. Cleanliness should begin at home and extend to our neighborhoods, villages, towns, lakes, government offices, industries, hospitals, and educational institutions. We conduct this program on the third Saturday of every month. If we protect the environment, we ensure better health. We must also plant more trees.”

“Plastic has become the biggest threat to our environment. From toothbrushes to food containers, plastic is everywhere. Disposable bottles, cups, and covers are highly hazardous. They pollute soil and water, and contribute to cancer. Accumulated plastic waste prevents rainwater from seeping into the ground, blocks plant growth, dries up water sources, and lowers groundwater levels. The more plastic we use, the worse the environmental impact. Microplastics are entering our food and water without us realizing,” Naidu explained.

"Toxic gases emitted during the production and burning of plastic cause severe respiratory illnesses and other health issues, including cancer. Plastic waste is polluting rivers, lakes, and canals, threatening aquatic life. Everyone must stop using plastic bags below 120 microns, as well as disposable cups and plates. Alternatives like cloth bags, metal straws, and compostable plates should be encouraged,” he appealed.