Published Jul 04, 2025 | 8:19 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 04, 2025 | 8:19 PM
The spectacular peaks of the Nelliyampathy range give a magnificent and timeless aura. (Creative Commons)
The scenic Nelliyampathy hill station is gearing up to become a ‘green destination’, with the Palakkad district administration set to impose a strict plastic ban from 2 October.
The move follows a directive from the Kerala High Court to ban plastic at hilly tourism spots.
District Collector G Priyanka announced the decision during a coordination meeting at the Collectorate, instructing officials to formulate a comprehensive action plan for smooth implementation.
As a precursor, the ban will be partially rolled out by 15 August.
The restrictions cover a wide range of items including water bottles below five litres, single-use plastic containers, cups, plates, plastic sachets, laminated boxes, and soft drink bottles under two litres.
In their place, the administration recommends water kiosks, reusable bottles, biodegradable containers, cloth and paper bags, and natural material-based products.
A sub-committee comprising local body representatives, department officials, traders and volunteers will be formed to oversee awareness campaigns, set up green checkpoints, and improve drinking water availability.
The collector said the initiative would help preserve Nelliyampathy’s unspoiled charm for future generations and offer tourists a cleaner, greener experience.
The meeting was attended by Local Self-Government Department Joint Director Saji Thomas, Suchitwa Mission officials, and plantation and tourism stakeholders.
