Bhubaneswar: In a major push towards environmental sustainability, the Kataka District Administration has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ORMAS, Mayurbhanj, to ensure the large-scale production, availability, and supply of sal leaf plates and other biodegradable disposable food-serving materials during the upcoming Bali Jatra.
The initiative aims to significantly reduce plastic waste, promote cleanliness, and make the historic fair greener. Under the agreement, the administration will provide free land for two dedicated stalls — one at the Upper Ground and another at the Lower Ground — where adequate stocks of eco-friendly sal leaf plates will be made available to food stall operators.
According to officials, the district administration has already placed an order for approximately 10 lakh sal leaf plates. These biodegradable plates will be supplied to food stalls at affordable rates, encouraging widespread adoption of alternatives to single-use plastic.
Plastic bags have also been restricted during the event. The Collector has directed that strict monitoring and crackdowns will be carried out both during the day and at night by the administration and civic body.
Violators face fines, and in serious cases, their plot allotments may be cancelled. This collaborative effort between the Kataka District Administration and ORMAS marks a progressive step to ensure a cleaner and more environmentally responsible Bali Jatra.
