Govt issues draft notification on plastic bag ban

15-Sep-05

In a bid to convert Maharashtra into a plastic bag free zone, the state government has issued a draft notification in this regard. The draft, published by a special gazette order, has set a 30-day time from Wednesday 14 September 2005, “for all persons likely to be affected” to submit their suggestions and objections to the proposed ban. The draft, along with suggestions and objections, will be considered by the government after the 30-day period. The draft elaborates “Every trader, including hawkers, shopkeeper — wholesaler or retailer — or any other person shall discontinue the use of polyethylene bags for packing, handling, storing, carrying or for any other purpose. Municipal commissioners and chief officers of the municipal councils and collectors of districts shall ensure the compliance of directions. However, the punishment for violations has not been elaborated. Earlier, the chief minister had announced that traders, retailers and hawkers, if found using plastic bags, would be fined Rs 5,000 or would have to pay a fine proportionate to the stock of such bags. Subsequent offences would attract a 3-month imprisonment. However, the new draft makes no mention of any fine. Earlier, the government had announced that users would be fined Rs 1,000, if caught carrying plastic bags. However, the new draft is silent on bringing the common man under the purview of the ban.