Bhubaneswar: In a move to address the growing issue of coconut waste in public spaces, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced a toll-free helpline number (1929) for residents to report discarded coconut shells across the city.
The initiative aims to ensure quick collection and scientific processing of coconut waste dumped in markets, temples and residential areas in Bhubaneswar.
24×7 Helpline for Residents
Citizens can call 1929, a round-the-clock helpline, to report piles of used coconuts. Once a complaint is registered, specialised collection vehicles will be deployed to clear the waste promptly.
Processing and Sustainability
Officials said the city’s coconut waste processing unit has the capacity to handle around 3,000 coconuts per day, helping reduce the burden on landfills while converting waste into useful by-products.
Public Health and Cleanliness
Authorities emphasised that timely removal of coconut waste is crucial, as discarded shells can:
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Trap stagnant water
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Emit foul odours
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Become breeding grounds for mosquitoes
By streamlining collection and processing, the civic body aims to improve urban sanitation, public health and environmental sustainability.
The initiative is part of BMC’s broader efforts to encourage citizen participation in waste management and maintain cleanliness across the city.
-OdishaAge