The Maharashtra state cabinet has decided to issue an Ordinance to ban statewide use of plastic bags thinner than 50 microns and less than 8 inches by 12 inches in size. It will be mandatory for manufacturers to mention the thickness and quality (virgin or non-virgin) of the plastic, name and address of the manufacturer and the registration numbers issued by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and Industries Department.
The Ordinance will stipulate that for storage, handling and transport of foodstuff, medicines, milk, oil, liquid food items and drinking water, plastic manufactured from original, virgin raw material (i.e. polyethylene or polypropylene) in its natural colour only be used. Recycled plastic will not be allowed.
The Maharashtra State Non-Biodegradable Garbage Control Ordinance recommends stringent punishments for violation to ensure effective implementation of the ban. The MPCB will be directly responsible for controlling the manufacturing of plastic of prescribed thickness and width.
Effective management and disposal of non-degradable bio-wastes is also proposed. A system of collection and segregation will be introduced. From April 1, every household, housing societies, commercial complexes and hotels will have to maintain two garbage cans of two different colours for degradable and non-degradable wastes. Violations are proposed to be met with heavy fines and punishments.
08-Feb-06 
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