Wed Oct 02 00:25:40 UTC 2024: ## Agra Municipal Corporation Turns Shoe Waste into Mats, Fights Pollution

**Agra:** In a unique initiative to combat pollution and curb waste, the Agra Municipal Corporation is turning discarded shoe cuttings into durable mats. This project is being spearheaded by women from self-help groups, who are creating a 155-meter long mat that will be showcased on October 2nd.

The city of Agra is a hub for the shoe industry, but the disposal of shoe waste has posed a significant challenge. The cuttings often clog drains and, when burned, contribute to air pollution. With the city facing a ban on burning waste due to air quality regulations, the corporation has implemented a “5R” approach to address this issue.

The “5R” center collects shoe cuttings, which are then used to create mats. The project, currently in its pilot phase, involves 20 women who are creating the 155-meter mat by weaving together six-foot-long pieces. Each mat requires approximately 6 kilograms of shoe cuttings.

Rekha Gupta, the chairperson of the area-level committee, highlighted the quality and potential applications of these mats, stating that they are sturdy and attractive, suitable for use as yoga mats or other purposes.

This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility. As part of a five-day cleanliness drive, the city administration carried out sanitation drives in major markets and religious sites, urging citizens to refrain from using plastic bags and promoting the use of cloth or paper bags instead. The campaign included clean-up operations at temples and markets, street art, and a “Swachhta Hi Seva” rally. The corporation is also actively engaging NGOs and volunteers in this campaign.

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