Mapping the Distribution of Tobacco Litter During the Haridwar Kumbh Mela 2021: A Compliance Assessment of Tobacco-Free Kumbh Mela.

INTRODUCTION

Tobacco litter is one of the most common forms of litter, comprising between 26 and 33% of all visible litter, leading to severe environmental damage. The current study attempts to assess the compliance with the Tobacco-Free Kumbh Mela (TFKM) mandate by analyzing the spatial distribution of tobacco product wastes (TPWs) in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, during mid-March and April 2021.

METHODS

We collected information about TPWs (smoking and smokeless tobacco) in the Kumbh Mela area during the busiest week. The litter count (mean ± S.D.) was calculated for total TPWs along with litter density (per sqm) in various public places. We also used Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software to develop a graduated map of the density of TPWs across the Kumbh Mela area.

RESULTS

Bathing areas at the TFKM, which had the largest population density, had the least litter count (4.33 ± 1.26) and density (0.9 per sqm). While in the remotest location, parking areas were found to have maximum litter count (30.0 ± 18.0) and density (6.5 per sqm). Overall, the surveyed sites were non-compliant with the Tobacco-free Kumbh Mela as notified by the state government.

CONCLUSION

Mass awareness campaigns should be undertaken at large scale to educate tobacco users regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use and the TPWs while inculcating a pro-envirnoment attitude to ensure compliance with directives like TFKM.