PUNE, July 5, 2013: Irresponsible behaviour of pilgrims is threatening the biodiversity of Bhimashankar sanctuary. About seven lakh plastic bottles and seven lakh plastic wrappers are thrown in the jungle every year. With the holy month of Shravan approaching, the Forest Department is under pressure to manage the loads of garbage generated in and around the temple.

Situated at about 100 km from Pune, the Bhimashankar sanctuary is home to rich flora and fauna, including the State animal Indian Giant Squirrel or Shekru. A part of the western ghats, the sanctuary is spread across 130 sq km.

The temple of Lord Shiva situated in the sanctuary and the source of Bhima river are the major tourist attractions in the sanctuary. The visitors are increasing the garbage generation, posing a major threat to the wildlife and the water sources.

Chief conservator of forest (wildlife) M K Rao told Sakal Times, “Around 15.5 lakh tourists visit the place every year including the huge rush in the temple in the month of Shravan. On Mahashivratri (single day) two lakh people come here. About seven lakh plastic bottles, seven lakh plastic wrappers, seven lakh plastic carry bags and about the same number of thermacol plates are thrown in the jungle. We have a system in place to collect the waste but we are looking for people's support to keep the sanctuary clean.”

Despite the cleanliness drive, warnings and punitive action, the generation of garbage in the Bhimashankar sanctuary does not decrease.

The heavy vehicular traffic and open defecation are other major concerns.

Huge amount of 'nirmalya' too is generated in the temple. This has been flowing into the water streams and polluting it, according to the officer.

GEARING UP FOR SHRAVAN

- About 1.5 lakh people visit Bhimashankar on a single Monday in the month of Shravan while the average is 1,500 on normal day.

- The Forest Department will work with SWACH, a co-operative society, for recycling the plastic bottles. Until now, only the plastic bags collected from the area were being recycled. Extra personnel and additional vehicles will be deployed to collect the waste.

- “Those who are found littering will be fined. We are already working with the locals and adjoining villages to help discipline the visitors. Some villages are also providing help to manage it better,” said M K Rao.

APPEAL TO PILGRIMS

- Do not throw waste in the sanctuary. Keep a bag to put the waste and carry it while returning.

- Do not carry plastic bags, plastic plates and other non-biodegradable articles.

- Use plates made from leafs (patravali)

- Use toilets, do not pollute the water sources in the sanctuary.

Source: Sakal Times, DT. July 5, 2013.