As Delhi prepares for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, concerns have been raised about the excessive use of thermocol in pandals and decorations. The city is expected to generate a significant amount of dry thermocol waste in just 10 days, which could pose a major threat to the environment and the festivities. Meanwhile, the Congress has released its first list of candidates for the Haryana Assembly elections, with Olympian Vinesh Phogat and former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda among the prominent names. The party is also engaged in seat-sharing talks with the Aam Aadmi Party, but the discussions are likely to fall through.
Excessive Thermocol Use in Delhi's Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations: Environmental Concerns
As Delhi prepares for the grand Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, environmentalists have voiced concerns over the excessive use of thermocol in pandals and decorations. The city generates a staggering amount of dry thermocol waste during the 10-day event, posing a significant threat to the environment.
Thermocol, a lightweight plastic foam, is widely used for its insulating and cushioning properties. However, it is non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. Its presence in the environment leads to soil and water pollution, and can harm wildlife.
Environmental Impact
Government and Activist Response
Delhi's authorities have taken steps to reduce thermocol use during Ganesh Chaturthi. In 2019, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee banned the use of thermocol for decorations and ordered pandals to use alternative materials.
Environmental activists have also launched awareness campaigns and promoted eco-friendly alternatives to thermocol, such as bamboo, cloth, and paper.
Congress Candidates for Haryana Assembly Elections
Meanwhile, the Indian National Congress has released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Notable names include Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat and former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.
Congress-AAP Alliance
The Congress is in talks with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for a seat-sharing alliance in the elections. However, sources indicate that the discussions are likely to fail due to disagreements over seat allocation.
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