On 21st June 2025, a community dialogue and public survey was held at Triyuginarayan Temple, Rudraprayag, under the joint initiative of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and SDC Foundation. Themed “Faith & Cleanliness Together”, the program aimed to raise awareness on waste management, reduce plastic use, and promote the concept of a “Zero Waste Tirth Sthal.”
Led by Dr. Sandhya Joshi from WII and the SDC team comprising Dinesh Semwal, Pyare Lal and Praveen Upreti, over 100 stakeholders participated, including local residents, SHGs, temple priests, and pilgrims. The dialogue focused on the growing waste challenges due to increasing tourism, especially plastic pollution, and the need for integrated solutions.
SDC Foundation highlighted traditional eco-friendly practices, the vital role of faith leaders in spreading awareness, and the importance of involving communities in sustainable waste systems. A walkthrough survey of over 50 local establishments revealed a lack of basic waste infrastructure, absence of dustbins, segregation, or disposal systems despite growing waste from approx. 2,000 daily pilgrims.
Key recommendations included declaring Triyuginarayan a “Zero Waste Pilgrimage Town,” setting up a Mini Material Recovery Facility (MRF), enforcing plastic restrictions, and empowering rural sanitation committees. Linking waste to local livelihoods was also emphasized through composting and recycled products.
The event concluded with a collective pledge for cleanliness and responsible behavior. This initiative marks the beginning of a larger movement to preserve the sanctity of pilgrimage sites through sustainability. SDC Foundation is committed to expanding this model across Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
