Prayagraj: In a bid to promote environmentally responsible celebrations and prevent the cutting of green trees during Holi, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation (PMC) introduced an innovative initiative to organise eco-friendly Holika Dahan across the city this year. The civic body decided to distribute cow dung cakes in all wards to be used for community bonfires instead of wood.Officials said the move was planned in view of the large-scale felling of trees witnessed every year ahead of Holika Dahan, when residents often cut green branches and trees for burning. Such practices not only damage urban greenery but also lead to excessive smoke emissions, adversely impacting air quality and public health.Under the initiative, nearly 1,000 cow dung cakes will be distributed in each of the city’s 100 wards. These dung cakes, locally known as kande or upla, are being procured from cattle rearers within urban areas as well as from villages located on the outskirts of the city. Municipal teams already began procurement to ensure timely distribution before the festival.According to officials, separate teams were constituted at every zonal office to implement the plan effectively. While one team is coordinating with local cow owners and dairy operators within the city, another was deployed in nearby rural areas to arrange adequate quantities of dried cow dung cakes.The civic body believes that dung cakes burn more efficiently than green wood and produce comparatively less smoke, thereby helping reduce air pollution during Holi festivities. Authorities also expect the initiative to discourage indiscriminate tree cutting and contribute to the conservation of the city’s green cover.The distribution will be carried out in wards under the supervision of elected corporators, encouraging residents to conduct collective Holika Dahan at designated public locations.Mayor Umesh Chandra Ganesh Kesarwani said that the initiative reflects the municipal corporation’s commitment to balancing traditional celebrations with environmental protection. He added that the civic body is continuously working towards improving urban environmental practices and promoting sustainable festival celebrations.
