In a strong show of citizen-driven sustainability, over 813 kg of old but usable clothes were collected during a special drive in Vashi, ensuring they are reused instead of ending up in landfills.
The initiative, held at Sahitya Mandir Hall, was jointly organised by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), Project Mumbai, and Marathi Sahitya Sanskriti va Kala Mandal.
Residents from across Navi Mumbai turned up in large numbers, donating clothes in good condition.
The collected garments have now been sent to the Textile Recovery Facility (TRF) at CBD Belapur, where they will be sorted, processed, and upcycled into new products, significantly reducing textile waste.
NMMC Chief Dr Kailas Shinde said, “Citizen participation is key to effective waste management. Initiatives like these not only reduce the landfill burden but also promote responsible habits among people. Our focus is to build a sustainable and cleaner Navi Mumbai through such collaborative efforts.”
Officials highlighted that the TRF project, run in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles, SBI Foundation, and Tisser India, also creates employment for women from self-help groups who are actively involved in sorting and recycling.
Positive response from Navi Mumbaikars strengthens sustainability push
Rohit Fadtare of Project Mumbai said, “The response from citizens has been extremely encouraging. People are now more aware and willing to contribute towards sustainability. This is not just a collection drive; it’s a movement towards responsible living.”
Vaishali Kadam of Tisser Trust added, “Every piece of clothing reused or upcycled is a step towards reducing waste. At the same time, it empowers women by creating meaningful livelihood opportunities through the recycling process.”
Along with clothes, plastic waste was also collected and sent for recycling, further strengthening the environmental impact of the drive.
Civic officials thanked citizens for their enthusiastic participation and urged more residents to adopt eco-friendly habits, making Navi Mumbai a model for sustainable urban living.
