Nestled within the lush Nallamala forest of Telangana, the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) has declared war on one of the most pervasive threats to its environment: plastic waste. This initiative, launched just over three years ago, culminated in the reserve being declared plastic-free on July 1, 2024. Forest staff have seized a staggering 5,600 kg of plastic waste in under a month, highlighting the severity of the issue and the reserve's dedication to combating it.

The Plastic Menace

ATR has been grappling with plastic pollution for years, a problem exacerbated by the heavy traffic on the 70-km highway that cuts through the reserve. This route, bustling with 400 to 1,600 vehicles daily—and up to 2,800 during festive seasons—serves as a major thoroughfare for pilgrims traveling to the Srisailam temple and reservoir. The resulting litter, predominantly plastic water bottles and snack wrappers, has posed a significant threat to the wildlife and environment.

In the past year alone, ATR collected an alarming 17,000 kg of recyclable and 33,000 kg of non-recyclable waste. The effort to tackle this issue began over three years ago, when the reserve employed "swachh sevaks" or ragpickers from the local tribal community to manage waste collection. Despite these efforts, the need for a more comprehensive solution became apparent.


Source: Google Images

A United Front Against Plastic

The reserve's management, under the guidance of District Forest Officer Rohith Gopidi, implemented stringent measures to curb the influx of plastic. Vehicles passing through the reserve are now thoroughly inspected at checkpoints in Mannanur, Durvasula, and Domalapenta. Common disposable plastic items such as water bottles and snack packets are seized to prevent them from polluting the forest.

This initiative is not limited to waste collection. The ATR has also taken significant steps to educate travelers about the importance of maintaining a clean environment. A fine of Rs 10,000 is imposed for violations, reinforcing the message that preserving the natural habitat is a shared responsibility. Additionally, the reserve has introduced sustainable alternatives, such as providing potable water from a reverse osmosis plant and promoting the use of cloth and jute bags crafted by local women.

Empowering the Community

The plastic-free initiative has not only benefitted the environment but also provided livelihoods to local communities. Twenty-two women from the Chenchu tribal community have been trained to produce eco-friendly products like cloth and jute bags and biodegradable plates made from bauhinia leaves. These products are available for sale at the Srisailam temple and local shops, offering tourists an eco-friendly option while supporting local artisans.

Moreover, the ATR employs 132 people in various roles, including nature guides, animal trackers, and drivers. These jobs are crucial for fostering a symbiotic relationship between the reserve's conservation efforts and the local population. The nature guides, often young Chenchu men and women, play a vital role in educating visitors about the reserve's wildlife and the importance of conservation. 

The impact of these measures has been profound. The ATR's efforts have not only curbed plastic pollution but also improved the overall environment, creating a healthier habitat for its wildlife. The reserve's tiger population, which has grown from seven in 2018 to an estimated 40.. “The presence of several cubs is a positive sign of a thriving ecosystem," notes Sushanth Bobade, a trainee IFS officer at ATR.

Despite the challenges, such as reduced revenues for local vendors due to the plastic ban, the reserve's management remains committed to finding sustainable solutions. The creation of more base camps for anti-poaching activities, funded by the proceeds from waste segregation and recycling, further demonstrates the ATR's holistic approach to conservation.

In a world increasingly plagued by environmental degradation, ATR's success story is a shining example of how, by working together, we can create a sustainable future for both wildlife and people.