Tirupati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday called for the elimination of plastic to protect the environment, claiming that “excessive use of plastic can lead to cancer”.
Addressing a meeting in Tirupati as part of the ‘Swarna Andhra-Swachh Andhra‘ initiative, Naidu said that plastic has become “the biggest demon” threatening the environment.
The vision lays out a comprehensive framework for economic advancement, social equity, environmental sustainability, and governance excellence.
“To protect the environment, we must chase away this plastic demon. Excessive use of plastic can lead to cancer… No one should fall victim to this,” the chief minister said.
From toothbrushes to the plates we eat from, he pointed out that plastic has become a part of daily life, adding that common items like water bottles, cups, and covers are harmful.
He further claimed that “plastic pollution is contaminating the soil”, hindering the percolation of rainwater, and causing other environmental issues.
Naidu announced plans to make the state secretariat plastic-free by August 15, extend this initiative to all municipalities by October 2, and implement it across the state by December.
Calling on every citizen to be part of the ‘Swachh Andhra’ mission by keeping their homes and surroundings clean, he also promised to clear all piled-up garbage across the state by October.
The chief minister noted that the TDP-led NDA government had approved solar panel installations for 20 lakh homes, turning rooftops, offices, and fields into hubs of solar energy.
“I’m focusing on green energy. With global warming triggering multiple challenges, green energy is the only solution,” he said.
Criticising YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy, Naidu alleged that the latter “created chaos” during a recent visit to Bangarupalyam by “dumping mangoes” on the road while meeting farmers.
Naidu said the NDA alliance government came to the rescue of mango farmers by ensuring a payment of Rs 12,000 per tonne-Rs 4,000 from the government and Rs 8,000 from buyers.
Earlier, during a visit to an integrated waste processing plant at Tukivakam village in Tirupati, the chief minister directed officials to make Andhra Pradesh “a national model in waste processing and utilisation.” PTI STH SSK
