Suhail Dar
In a decisive move to combat the escalating issue of plastic pollution, the Municipal Council Anantnag has issued a stern order to enforce a complete ban on polythene within its jurisdiction.
The order highlights the severe environmental threats posed by polythene, including land, air, and water pollution, and underscores the government’s commitment to addressing these issues.
“Polythene and polythene trash have become a curse of modern living, leading to numerous catastrophic problems,” stated a municipal authority representative.
“Despite continuous awareness campaigns, reports indicate that shopkeepers, dealers, and vendors are still engaging in the use, sale, and distribution of banned polythene bags.”
The order acknowledges that despite the availability of alternatives and their easy accessibility in the market, many businesses persist in using banned polythene products.
This defiance of legal regulations undermines the government’s efforts to promote environmentally friendly alternatives and exacerbates plastic pollution.
To address this, the Municipal Council has provided a 10-day grace period for all affected entities—including shopkeepers, vendors, dealers, and distributors—to cease any practices involving banned polythene.
After this period, any individual or establishment found in violation of the ban will face severe penalties and potential sealing of their premises. Repeated offenders will be subject to FIR filings.
The move is part of a broader initiative to enhance environmental protection and ensure compliance with regulations designed to mitigate the impact of plastic waste on the environment.