Maharashtra Imposes A Complete Ban On Plastic Carry Bags

Maharashtra has followed the lead of several states to impose a complete ban on plastic carry bags and thermocol cutlery to help the environment of the country and the world as a whole. Maharashtra has now become the 18th state to do so. Ramdas Kadam, environment minister for the state of Maharashtra said that the Devendra Fadnavis led government has decided to impose a refundable charge on plastic items such as milk pouches and PET bottles as they are are exempted from the ban.

The minister also said that the use of plastic is one of the major cause of diseases and hence, the government has come forward with this decision. In case of any violation, both the manufacturers and the users will have to pay a fine of Rs. 5000/-. The state of Maharashtra produces a total of 1100 tonnes of waste everyday. This waste has become one of the primary causes of diseases that are often life threatening. The waste has become a major concern for the government as the major contributor is definitely plastic. The thermocol that is used in decoration has also been banned. The state's environment minister urges the manufacturers to produce cotton bags instead. The proposal to ban was cleared on 15th of March by the Maharashtra cabinet. The governments has given one month to all traders, manufacturers and consumers to get rid of all thing banned within the notice.

By: Neha Maheshwari

Content: http://www.asianage.com/metros/mumbai/250318/say-no-to-plastic-maharashtra-becomes-18th-state-to-ban-polythene-carry-bags.html