Banned polythene in use in Haryana’s Rohtak; only 406 shopkeepers fined in 3 years

The municipal authorities have been running a special drive to curb the use of single-use plastic in the city, under which shopkeepers are being challaned for using banned polythene bags. However, information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act presents a somewhat different picture.

As per the information, only 406 shopkeepers have been fined for using banned polythene bags over the past three years, from April 2022 to March 2025. A total penalty of over Rs 8.14 lakh has been imposed during this period.

The official information has been procured by Subhash, State Convener of Haryana Soochna Adhikar Manch, from Chief Sanitary Inspector, Municipal Corporation. The data reveals that in 2022–23, as many as 197 challans were issued and Rs 3,68,700 was collected as penalty. In 2023–24, only 30 challans were issued, generating Rs 66,000 as fine. During 2024–25, the civic body issued 179 challans and collected Rs 3,87,201.

In its reply, the Chief Sanitary Inspector has also clarified that in cases of repeated violations even after issuance of a challan, stricter action can be initiated against the defaulters.

The penalty amount is determined on the basis of the quantity of banned polythene seized. As per prescribed norms, a fine of Rs 500 is imposed for up to 100 grams of polythene, Rs 1,500 for 101–500 grams, Rs 3,000 for 501 grams to 1 kilogram, Rs 10,000 for 1–5 kilograms, Rs 20,000 for 5–10 kilograms, and Rs 25,000 for quantities exceeding 10 kilograms.

The civic body further stated that penalties are calculated strictly on the basis of weight in cases where excessive quantities are found. If violators fail to deposit the fine, legal proceedings are initiated in court. The seized polythene is handed over to Green Planet Pvt Ltd for disposal and further processing.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a shopkeeper said they were often compelled to use polythene bags as most customers did not bring their own carry bags. “Environment-friendly alternatives are costlier and customers are unwilling to pay extra, so many shopkeepers keep polythene bags to avoid losing business,” he added.

But, the municipal officials reiterated their commitment to strictly enforcing the ban on single-use plastic and urged traders and residents to adopt eco-friendly alternatives in order to keep the city clean and environmentally safe.