Rotary Club of Coimbatore City launched a new project to combat plastic pollution in the city especially near lakesides, forest areas, and urban hubs. Called 'Puthuyir – Iyarkai', the first part of this project was rolled out at the Hawkers Centre, Valankulam Lake. The initiative focuses on the installation of PET Bottle Collection Kiosks across public spaces in the city.

As part of the broader initiative, plastic bottles collected through these kiosks will be sent for recycling into useful products such as T-shirts, reusable grocery bags, backpacks, footwear, and household containers. This step not only addresses pollution but also supports a circular economy by converting waste into valuable consumer items.

Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar, I.A.S., District Collector, Coimbatore inaugurated the project and emphasized the importance of community-led efforts in protecting the environment.  Sathasivam, a respected writer and environmentalist, highlighted the long-term ecological damage of single-use plastics and encouraged citizens to take ownership of environmental restoration. He also noted the project’s potential to inspire similar movements across Tamil Nadu and beyond.

Rtn. MD. R.S. Maruti, District Governor Elect (2026–27), RID 3206, addressed the gathering and commended the Rotary Club’s vision to align community service with environmental impact. He urged other clubs in the district to adopt similar long-term, scalable initiatives.

The launch program also featured the unveiling of “Drug-Free Kovai – No Parking” iron display boards to promote anti-drug messaging and civic awareness, handed over symbolically to the city’s law enforcement.

The project was conceptualized and led by Rtn. Kirthika, Project Chair, under the leadership of Rtn. Dr. G. Suresh, President (2025–26), and Rtn. M. Murugan, Secretary (2025–26). Their commitment to environmental change was supported by city officials and local partners.

The program concluded with the installation ceremony of the new Rotary Coimbatore City office bearers for the Rotary year 2025–26, reaffirming the club’s ongoing mission to serve with purpose under the theme “Unite for Good.”