GVMC appeals for eco-friendly Bhogi celebrations

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg has appealed to residents to celebrate the Bhogi festival in an environment-friendly manner, cautioning against lighting bonfires on roads and burning waste, which could damage public infrastructure and worsen air pollution.

In a press release issued on Monday, the Commissioner said that lighting Bhogi bonfires on tar roads results in the surface melting, leading to potholes and road damage. Such incidents not only affect the city’s appearance but also cause financial losses to the civic body, he said.

He noted that bonfires on roads could inconvenience motorists and increase the risk of accidents. The civic chief warned that those found lighting bonfires on roads would face penal action and legal proceedings.

Mr Garg also highlighted the health risks associated with open burning of waste, including municipal solid waste, plastic, tyres, rubber items, painted furniture, electronic waste, and sponge or foam materials. He said the burning of such items releases toxic gases and harmful pollutants such as fine particulate matter, dioxins and furans, which can severely affect public health, particularly children, the elderly, and those suffering from respiratory and cardiac ailments.

Calling for collective efforts, he urged elected representatives, resident welfare associations, NGOs and community leaders to create awareness to prevent open burning. Reiterating the slogan “Say No to Open Burning,” he said controlling air pollution and keeping Visakhapatnam clean is the responsibility of every citizen.