Archive · 1 Dec 2025
Araku Valley to Implement Deposit Return Scheme
Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh is starting a new plan to reduce plastic waste.
Tourists will pay a small fee for plastic items they bring in, like water bottles, and get the money back when they return the items.
This idea is similar to a successful plan in Kerala.
The goal is to keep the valley clean and protect its environment.
If this plan works well, it might be used in other areas too.
Araku Valley is implementing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to reduce plastic pollution.
Tourists will pay ₹10 for each plastic item and get a refund upon returning it.
The scheme is inspired by Kerala’s Bottle Bill model.
The initiative aims to deter littering, promote reuse, and improve local infrastructure.
If successful, the model will be extended to other agency areas.
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) and Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA)
- What
- Implementation of a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to reduce plastic pollution
- When
- Starting December 1
- Where
- Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
- Why
- To curb plastic pollution caused by tourists and promote sustainable tourism
- Location
- Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
- Initiative
- Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)
- Start Date
- December 1
- Deposit Amount
- ₹10 per plastic item
- Inspiration
- Kerala’s Bottle Bill model
- Organizations Involved
- APTDC and ITDA
- Goal
- Reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability