People continue to use plastic carry bags of less than 40 microns, thus indicating that the drive has failed
People continue to use plastic carry bags of less than 40 microns, thus indicating that the drive has failed
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Following tall claims made by the civic body that ban on use of plastic carry bags of less than 40 micron have been effectively enforced in the city, MiD DAY did a reality check to find out how true they were.
The result, however, was a bit disappointing. Be it Indira Nagar, Thippasandra HAL, Ulsoor or the Central Business District, banned plastic carry bags were being used everywhere. "I am aware of the ban. However I was in a hurry, so picked up this carry bag," said Poonam, who was seen carrying fruits in the bag.
The city generates roughly 5,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, of which nearly 50 tonne is plastic. In clear violation of the ban, many people in Indira Nagar market, MG Road, Commercial Street, Shivaji Nagar and CMH Road were observed carrying banned plastic carry bags. Some of them were not even aware of the ban.
While implementing the ban, the BBMP had stated that a fine of Rs 5,000, Rs 3,000 and Rs 1,000 will be levied on manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers respectively for failing to comply with permitted quality levels.
Several customers at stores surveyed by this reporter revealed that they are aware of the ban, but are not following it. Few owners said that they had read about it in the newspapers, but claim not to have received any intimation from suppliers about increase in thickness or price of the consignment.
When contacted, the BBMP authorities remained unavailable for comment.
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