Mapping the Distribution of Tobacco Litter During the Haridwar Kumbh Mela 2021: A Compliance Assessment of Tobacco-Free Kumbh Mela

Introduction: Tobacco litter is one of the most common forms of litter, comprising between 26 and 33% of all visible litter, leading to severe environmental damage. The current study attempts to assess the compliance with the Tobacco-Free Kumbh Mela (TFKM) mandate by analyzing the spatial distribution of tobacco product wastes (TPWs) in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, during mid-March and April 2021. Methods: We collected information about TPWs (smoking and smokeless tobacco) in the Kumbh Mela area during the busiest week. The litter count (mean ± S.D.) was calculated for total TPWs along with litter density (per sqm) in various public places. We also used Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software to develop a graduated map of the density of TPWs across the Kumbh Mela area. Results: Bathing areas at the TFKM, which had the largest population density, had the least litter count (4.33 ± 1.26) and density (0.9 per sqm). While in the remotest location, parking areas were found to have maximum litter count (30.0 ± 18.0) and density (6.5 per sqm). Overall, the surveyed sites were non-compliant with the Tobacco-free Kumbh Mela as notified by the state government. Conclusion: Mass awareness campaigns should be undertaken at large scale to educate tobacco users regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use and the TPWs while inculcating a pro-envirnoment attitude to ensure compliance with directives like TFKM.