Guwahati — In a landmark step toward climate innovation and sustainable urban waste management, PRIDE COOP (Pragjyotishpur Recycling Initiative for Development & Environment Cooperative Society Limited) officially launched ‘PRIDE BAHAN’, an eco-friendly waste collection rickshaw made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. The innovative vehicle was formally flagged off by Mr. Jogesh Mohan, Hon’ble Minister of Cooperation, Government of Assam, in the esteemed presence of Dr. B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Additional Chief Secretary, Cooperation, Government of Assam.

The flag-off ceremony marks a significant milestone in Assam’s transition toward a circular and regenerative economy, led by India’s first zonal climate cooperative. PRIDE BAHAN is a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and dignity for waste workers, redefining how waste is collected while spotlighting the power of upcycled materials.

Developed as part of PRIDE COOP’s larger vision to integrate circular design thinking into everyday systems, the PRIDE BAHAN is designed not only to be functional but to stand as a mobile reminder of what waste can become when reimagined. The lightweight, durable rickshaw is manufactured using hundreds of discarded plastic bottles, creatively engineered to provide both environmental impact and social utility.

Dr. B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, in his remarks, emphasized the innovation’s replicability and potential for wider implementation, particularly in urban local bodies. “This initiative perfectly aligns with the Government of Assam’s vision of sustainable development and self-reliant cooperatives. It merges innovation with impact,” he noted.

The launch event was attended by board members of PRIDE COOP, officials from the Cooperation Department, representatives from Pyxera Global, waste pickers, and local community leaders. The PRIDE Karmis (waste workers), who will be operating the PRIDE BAHAN, were also felicitated during the event, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the city’s waste management.

As PRIDE BAHAN begins its journey through the neighborhoods of Guwahati and beyond, it carries with it a powerful message — that waste, when reimagined, can drive not just vehicles but social change, livelihoods, and climate resilience.

The initiative is set to be scaled further across the eight districts under PRIDE COOP’s operational jurisdiction, making PRIDE BAHAN a flagship model of sustainable mobility and cooperative-led innovation.