Bhubaneswar: In a sustainable step ahead of Holi, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced organic gulal made from recycled temple flower waste, offering a chemical-free and fragrant alternative to conventional colours.
Officials said the civic body has been collecting discarded flowers from nearly 700 temples across the city over the past six months. The floral waste is being processed into incense sticks and organic gulal, preventing it from being dumped into drains or water bodies.
So far, around three quintals of the eco-friendly colour have been produced. A private agency has been engaged for manufacturing and distribution to ensure quality control and timely supply during the festive season.
Waste to Wealth Initiative
The initiative is part of BMC’s broader waste management and circular economy strategy. By repurposing temple flowers, the corporation aims to reduce environmental pollution, prevent clogging of drainage systems, and promote sustainable festival practices.
In a further move, BMC plans to direct marriage halls and hotels to channel their floral waste into the same recycling system. Civic authorities believe this will significantly cut down organic waste accumulation and improve urban sanitation.
The project not only supports environmental conservation but also encourages citizens to adopt eco-friendly celebrations, aligning tradition with sustainability.
-OdishaAge
