Solar-powered machine dispenses cloth bags | Fusion - WeRIndia

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has taken a significant step towards making the city plastic-free by setting up eco-friendly vending machines that dispense cloth bags.

This solar-powered ATM-like device can hold up to 500 bags. GHMC installed the first machine at the IDPL fruit market in Hyderabad.

Customers can obtain a cloth bag by inserting a ₹10 coin or currency note, or by using the UPI payment option.

These bags are spacious and sturdy. They can carry up to five kg of weight. They are suitable for carrying fruits, vegetables, and groceries.

Another vending machine has been set up near JNTU Rythu Bazar, Kukatpally. This machine is expected to become operational soon.

According to GHMC Zonal Commissioner V Mamata, the corporation worked in partnership with MOVATE and United Way of Hyderabad to promote sustainability. They have collaborated to implement the project.

The main objective of this project is to address two urgent issues. The first one is to provide a substitute for single-use plastic. Another one is to create employment opportunities for members of Women Self Help Groups (SHG).

As part of this initiative, members of SHG are provided with the necessary material to sew the cloth bags. These cloth bags are then loaded into the vending machines.

According to Mamata, this initiative will provide more opportunities for SHG members to earn revenue. Each member’s average monthly earning is monthly ₹75,000.

The vending machines are being placed near vegetable and fruit markets. Thus, GHMc wants to encourage a shift in community behaviour away from single-use plastics.

These vending machines are powered by solar energy. Hence, they assure a sustainable future.

The Zonal Commissioner says that more vending machines will be installed at strategic locations in the city if these machines are successful. Some of these locations include vegetable and fruit markets and shopping complexes.

Image by catayhome from Pixabay (Free for commercial use)

Image Reference: https://pixabay.com/photos/cloth-bag-bag-bag-of-raffia-2472107/