KOCHI: The district administration has chalked out a plan to turn the Malayattoor church into a fully eco-friendly pilgrim centre.
As part of the initiative, being implemented in association with the Neeleeswaram grama panchayat, a ban has been imposed on dumping of plastic and aluminium-coated plates in and around the pilgrim centre.
The pilgrimage season at the Malayattoor church will commence on April 1.
During the month-long pilgrimage, the entire area will be under surveillance of health official from the panchayat. Fines of up to Rs 1,000 will be imposed on those who dump waste along the road leading to the Church.
“The Neeleeswaram grama panchayat has been entrusted with the task of collecting the fine,” said District Collector Mohammed Y Safirulla.
“A consensus was reached on the matter at an all-party meeting held last month. During the pilgrimage
season, pilgrims and other visitors usually litter the area with plastic, cans and pet bottles. Waste dumping will affect the ecology and pollute the Periyar. With the district reeling under water shortage, we can’t afford to pollute the Periyar any more,” said the Collector.
“Food stalls will be set up to discourage pilgrims from bringing food. Officers of the Neeleeswaram panchayat, police and forest officials will work collectively for effective implementation of the ban,” said the Collector.