2 shopkeepers penalised for use of banned plastic items in Hisar

During an inspection drive around the bus stand area, a sanitation team of the Hisar Municipal Corporation (MC) today inspected nine shops and imposed Rs 1,200 fine on violators. Two shopkeepers were penalised for using single-use plastic, while two individuals were fined for littering in the open.

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An MC spokesperson informed that the drive was conducted under the directives of Municipal Commissioner Neeraj and supervised by Additional Commissioner Shalini Chetal and Joint Commissioner Dr Preetpal.

The spokesperson said as part of an ongoing awareness campaign, the MC team also educated shopkeepers and residents about environmental dangers of single-use plastics. He warned that these materials were non-biodegradable and released toxic fumes when burnt, posing risks to human health, wildlife and the environment.

The spokesperson said that improper disposal of plastic bags could block rainwater absorption, contributing to declining groundwater levels. All shopkeepers were directed to avoid using plastic bags thinner than 120 microns.

On the occasion of Nirjala Ekadashi, sweet water stalls (Chabeels) were set up across the city. During her visit to these stalls, Additional Commissioner Shalini Chetal found the use of single-use plastic glasses and littering at these stalls. She ordered confiscation of plastic cups and coordinated with local organisations to distribute steel glasses free of cost at stalls.

“Serving water is a noble act, but doing so in single-use plastic glasses harms both public health and the environment,” said Additional Commissioner Chetal. “We encourage everyone to use sustainable alternatives like steel, glass or clay utensils,” she said.