In a bid to promote responsible e-waste disposal and raise awareness about its environmental impact, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board, in collaboration with M/s Shiwalik Waste Management Limited and M/s Inner Wheel Club of Shimla Midtown, is organizing a “State-wide E-Waste Collection-cum-Awareness Drive.” This initiative aligns with World E-waste Day 2023 held on October 14, 2023.
E-Waste Collection Drive Kick-Started
Sanjay Gupta (IAS), Hon’ble Chairman of the HP State Pollution Control Board, inaugurated the e-waste collection drive by flagging off a mobile van at the board’s head office on October 16, 2023. The drive aims to collect e-waste from different parts of Shimla city and its 11 regional offices.
Collection Route and Dates (E-Waste Collection Drive In Shimla)
The mobile van’s collection route and dates are as follows:
- October 16, 2023: Phase-III HPSPCB HQ, BCS, New Shimla, Khalini, DC Office, Shimla (Collection Kiosk at DC Office Shimla)
- October 17, 2023: DC Office, Shimla (Full day collection at DC Shimla)
- October 18, 2023: H.P. Secretariat, Shimla (Full day collection at HP Secretariat, Chhota Shimla)
- October 19, 2023: Kanlog, Khalini, Chota Shimla, Sanjauli, Dhalli, Bhattakufur
- October 20, 2023: Panthaghati, Kasumpti, Vikasnagar, Mehli, Malyana
- October 21, 2023: Fagli, Tuti Kandi, Chakkar, Tutu – Tara Devi
During these dates, the van will be stationed at the respective locations to collect e-waste from the public.
Engaging Local Departments
The board has reached out to heads of various departments in Shimla, urging them to make their employees aware of the e-waste collection drive and encourage them to deposit their e-waste at the mobile van.
Regional Office Collection Points
Apart from the city collection, consumers and the public can also submit their e-waste at the board’s 11 regional offices located in Baddi, Bilaspur, Mandi, Shimla, Rampur, Parwanoo, Dharmashala, Una, Paonta Sahib, Kullu, and Chamba from October 16, 2023, to October 21, 2023. These offices will set up kiosks and accept e-waste from 10 AM to 5 PM. The board offers support prices for various e-waste items, such as smartphones, keypads, laptops, and computers.
Addressing the E-Waste Challenge
E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, posing a significant threat to the environment and human health due to toxic materials contained in electronic devices. Proper disposal is essential to mitigate these risks.
Awareness and Collaboration
Chairman, HPSPCB, encouraged media to raise awareness about the harmful effects of improper e-waste handling and disposal. He also expressed gratitude to M/s Shiwalik Waste Management Limited and M/s Inner Wheel Club of Shimla Midtown for their collaboration on this important initiative.
Appeal to the Public
Anil Joshi (IFS), Member Secretary of HP State Pollution Control Board, urged the citizens of Shimla to participate in the drive by depositing or donating their e-waste to the mobile van. Proper disposal and recycling of e-waste are crucial for safeguarding the environment and human health. By joining this campaign, individuals can contribute to the safe and responsible disposal of e-waste, supporting a sustainable future.
