Jharsuguda: World Environment Day was celebrated at the Andhari Forest Durga Temple in Kanchua, located under the Bagdihi Dihi Forest Range of the Jharsuguda Forest Division.
On this occasion, Bandana Pasayat, the Bagdihi Dihi Forest Range Officer, attended as the chief guest and spoke on how to reduce plastic pollution. She also performed rituals at the Maa Andhari Temple in Kanchua and inaugurated a cleanliness drive.
Every year, Banadurga Puja is conducted for the protection of Andhari hill. During this festival, which attracts thousands of devotees, a large quantity of plastic waste accumulates. Keeping this in mind, a cleanliness campaign was organized as part of the World Environment Day celebration.
The program saw the active participation of five Forest Protection Committees surrounding Andhari Hill — Pakelkhol, Dudukabahal, Babuchhipidihi, Banki Barapan, and the Maa Andhari Mahasangha. Social workers and journalists from nearby areas were also present.
The event was made successful by the presence and effort of Bagdihi Forest Forester Murari Prasad Sahu, Ameer Patel, team leader Chudamani Behera, and other field staff.