Sonepur, Mar 23: In a commendable effort to address the environmental challenges posed by plastic, Sunil Choudhury from the Binka town in Subarnapur district has taken the initiative to manufacture bio-degradable carry bags. Despite the government’s ban on plastic, the persistence of plastic in the environment remains a major concern, with negative impacts on both the ecosystem and human health. It is now widely recognized that plastics, particularly polythene bags, have a lasting harmful effect on soil, wildlife, and even livestock.
Choudhury, a local entrepreneur, started this project in December last year, driven by his determination to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a cleaner environment. He has set up a bio-degradable carry bag manufacturing unit, which has been supported by the district administration and the District Industrial Center (DIC). With technical guidance from the state government’s PMEGP (Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Program) scheme, Chowdhury secured a loan of ₹50 lakh from the HDFC bank to help fund his project.
Starting with a production capacity of 500 grams per bag, the unit now manufactures up to 5 kilograms per bag, depending on customer requirements. The bags produced here have barcodes, allowing customers to easily scan and place orders. Chowdhury’s bio-degradable bags are now being sold in various districts including Bargarh, Sambalpur, and Bolangir, with increasing demand in the local and regional markets.
The factory not only provides eco-friendly alternatives to plastic but also offers employment opportunities. Currently, around 20-30 families are benefiting from this initiative, with both men and women working at the unit. The jobs provide an income to those previously struggling, particularly in rural areas where employment is limited.
The factory employs advanced machinery, operated by skilled workers from Bihar, who run the machines 24/7, producing up to 17 kilograms of carry bags per machine per day. The facility’s expansion and the increasing number of orders highlight the growing need for sustainable alternatives to plastic.
Choudhury’s initiative aligns with the government’s push for sustainable practices and reduction in plastic use. As the administration tightens regulations on plastic usage, projects like these are expected to increase, contributing to a greener and cleaner future.
