Maharashtra ban single-use plastic from today

In Maharashtra, the statewide ban on single-use plastic items comes into effect today. Heavy fine will be imposed on those caught using these items. Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam said, errant manufacturers will face a strong action, but common people and small traders will not be harassed.

Mr Kadam was speaking to reporters after a review meeting with State Pollution Control Board officials. He said, there will be no relaxation in fine.

The fine for the first-time offenders will be 5,000 rupees and for second-time offenders, it will be 10,000, rupees. A third violation will attract a fine of 25,000



rupees and a jail term for three months.

On 23rd of March, the state government imposed a ban on manufacturing, use, sale, distribution and storage of plastic materials such as one-time-use bags, spoons, plates and thermocol items. The government decided against plastic to check the damage caused to the environment. 

Meanwhile, the state government told the Bombay High Court that it has asked all local authorities to set up a mechanism to arrange the collection, transportation and disposal of banned plastic items and plastic waste.