KOCHI: In an effort to control unrestrained use of carry bags and other plastic products and the subsequent increase in quantity of non-biodegradable waste being generated in the city, the Kochi Corporation has decided to strictly enforce the ban on the use of a carry bag whose thickness is below 50 microns. Though the ban on thin bags was introduced earlier based on the new plastic waste management rules issued by the Union government, the civic body had failed to enforce it strictly.
“Health inspectors and junior health inspectors in all the 21 health circles have been asked to conduct inspections on all shops and commercial firms to check use of thin plastic bags. The intensive drive will begin on Saturday,” said Adv. V.K Minimol, health committee chairperson. However, during the initial phase, fine will not be imposed and the focus will be on creating awareness, she added.
“If the traders are found to be violating the norms, during the next raids, they will be fined Rs 2,500 on the spot. Those found to be dumping waste wrapped in plastic carry bags will also be fined on the spot. The fine amount will be from Rs 500 to Rs 5,000, according to the discretion of health officials. The civic body had earlier announced a similar ban in 2012 following an order of the LSGD secretary, but had failed to enforce it.
