Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that it is now mandatory to use plastic waste in highway construction. He mentioned that 80 lakh tonnes of garbage had already been repurposed for national highways between New Delhi and Mumbai.

At the conclusion of the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign, Gadkari emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of using waste in infrastructure projects. He pointed out that recycling waste not only helps in reducing pollution but also creates employment opportunities.

He also highlighted the potential of converting waste into fuel, noting ongoing projects in collaboration with Indian Oil and other companies aimed at producing bio-CNG from waste materials. Gadkari referenced Reliance’s plans to launch 600 projects that would generate bio-CNG and LNG from rice straw, cow dung, and biomass, demonstrating how waste could be converted into a valuable resource for alternative fuel.

Gadkari underscored the importance of reducing dependence on imported oil by using recycled rubber tyres and plastic in road construction. He revealed that an upcoming meeting with oil company executives would focus on promoting this initiative, with the potential to reduce the need for 80 lakh tonnes of imported oil.

Sharing insights from his own farming practices, Gadkari explained that he had produced 50,000 tonne of bio-fertilizer from waste over the last eight years. He encouraged the Nagpur Municipal Corporation to explore innovative waste management solutions, such as using recycled plastic for construction blocks. Gadkari also praised the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign, highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining a sustainable environment. He urged a cultural shift in littering behaviour, stating, "If I can carry my chocolate wrapper home, so can you."