Littering seems to be in our genes, literally. Open a packet of chips and just let the packet drop down. It does not matter if you are in the middle of a street. It does not matter if the street is otherwise spick and span. Who cares! When a person has to throw, a person has to throw. While we all like to keep our homes clean with the use of disinfectants, cleaners and what have you, just look at the condition of our roads and just about any open spaces.
Plastic bags, paper, plastic covers etc. are everywhere. Children are not immune to this contagious disease either. No matter how many "Swachh Bharat" campaigns keep happening in our country, it seems that I will only do what is convenient for me. Tell a child that he must pick the wrapper he threw and chances are that they would either roll their eyes or give you a dirty look as if you asked for their family's wealth. Yes, these are the affluent kids who go to the most expensive schools who do that. Perhaps, it is the fault of their parents who do not reinforce good behavior outside their homes. Or, maybe their peers who don't care.
Whatever it is, it seems that the littering habit of people in our country is here to stay. What can awareness campaigns do when the mindsets are just not amenable to behaviour decent and proper?
Plastic bags, paper, plastic covers etc. are everywhere. Children are not immune to this contagious disease either. No matter how many "Swachh Bharat" campaigns keep happening in our country, it seems that I will only do what is convenient for me. Tell a child that he must pick the wrapper he threw and chances are that they would either roll their eyes or give you a dirty look as if you asked for their family's wealth. Yes, these are the affluent kids who go to the most expensive schools who do that. Perhaps, it is the fault of their parents who do not reinforce good behavior outside their homes. Or, maybe their peers who don't care.
Whatever it is, it seems that the littering habit of people in our country is here to stay. What can awareness campaigns do when the mindsets are just not amenable to behaviour decent and proper?
That's a shame to hear Rachna, though it seems to be here too, some places more than others. I always carry my garbage and recycling home if I can't find the proper disposing receptacle around. I wish everyone would do the same.... <3
ReplyDeleteMe too, Elly. Hope the mindsets transform soon.
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