Hussain reviews enforcement of plastic ban

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 14

Environment Minister Imran Husain today directed all agencies concerned to prepare a comprehensive action plan and accept the responsibility for preventing use of non-compostable, plastic of less than 50 micron thickness.

Hussain convened a meeting of senior officers of the Environment Department and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to review the measures being adopted for preventing the use of non-biodegradable plastic in question.

The minister observed that in addition to taking strict measures for preventing use of plastic, there is strong need to create mass awareness so that general public could be encouraged against use of plastic bags as well.

During the meeting, the officers informed the minister that for enforcing the strict prohibition on the manufacturing, sale, storage and use of such plastic at the shops and other establishments, concerted and coordinated measures are required to be taken on regular basis by various agencies charged with this responsibility viz. municipal corporations/local bodies, Revenue Department etc., along with Environment Department and the DPCC.

Husain expressed concern over the laxity and inaction on the part of the agencies concerned which has resulted in widespread use of plastic less than 50 microns which is non-recyclable.

“Such plastic adds to the non-decomposition of waste being not bio-degradable. This is posing serious health hazard not only to human life, but also to animal life and environment. Plastic waste also obstructs sewer system in a big way by preventing free flow of waste water,” said an official.

The minister directed the department and the DPCC to organise awareness campaigns, workshops, lectures from the experts besides making appeal through the media.

Public should also be motivated to use carry bags made of cloth, paper, jute or other recyclable/biodegradable material, he said.