Haldwani, Nov 11 A group of women in the Haldwani region of Uttarakhand have launched a drive to root out the use of polythene bags by making eco-friendly paper bags.

An initiative of 'Pahal' (Initiative), a self help group, these women are making bags out of old newspapers, which are as sturdy as normal polythene bags.

"We at 'Pahal' had raised many issues related to environment and it is in this context only that we have provided these women with training in making paper bags. Through this, we have also opened up an employment opportunity for them," claimed Afsaar Bano, Coordinator, 'Pahal'.

Aware about the hazards of using polythene bags, the women are happy about contributing towards environment preservation.

"Polythene bags are much in use. So, this is a small effort from our side to make these paper bags and do our bit to help save the environment," said Kamla Tamta, a member. These women use ropes and old newspapers to make these bags and make around 200 to 300 bags in a day.

The project is generating around rupees 4,000 as monthly income for these women. (ANI)