Puttur: At a time when the construction sector is facing difficulties due to the shortage of sand, a unique experiment of crushing waste glass bottles and using them as an alternative to sand has been successfully undertaken at Aryapu Gram Panchayat in Puttur.

Various experiments are being conducted across the country to promote waste reuse. While some have failed, others have gained popularity as value-added products. The experiment initiated by Aryapu Panchayat has now drawn attention, with curiosity about how successful it could become in the long run.

Experiment to manage glass waste
During the process of waste collection, the Panchayat found that a large quantity of glass bottles and other glass products were being collected. While some of this waste could be sold to scrap dealers, a significant portion remained unused.

With the intention of reusing this waste, Aryapu Panchayat Development Officer Nagesh M.R. initiated efforts to find a viable solution. While researching online, he came across the idea of crushing glass bottles and learned about the machinery required for the process.

Subsequently, with financial assistance of around Rs 4.25 lakh under Canara Bank's CSR fund for the year 2024-25, the machine was procured from Tamil Nadu. A shed was constructed near the Panchayat's waste management unit, and the glass-crushing machine was installed, marking the beginning of the experiment.

Trial for use as construction material
Once a sufficient quantity of crushed glass powder is collected, the Panchayat plans to mix it with cement to prepare mortar and use it for plastering walls near the Panchayat office. If this trial proves successful, the initiative may be expanded to other regions as well.