After failing to implement a blanket ban on plastic bags, the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has intensified their drive against usage of plastic below 40 microns.
The BBMP health department recently raided 70 godowns and served notice to as many as 40 manufacturers.
Amidst the criticism faced by the BBMP for its role on garbage disposal system in the city, the health department has taken the matter of plastic usage on priority basis. Dr Devika, the chief health officer of BBMP says, “We have seized 17 tonnes of plastic from various manufacturers who have been violating the rule. Moreover, a fine of `5.40 lakh has been levied on the violators.”
Earlier, BBMP commissioner Rajneesh Goel had informed City Express that the BBMP had tied up with KK Plastic Waste Management Private Limited (as per the Central Road Research Institute recommendation) who are making use of plastic extensively for road construction. He also pointed out on how plastic can be a big alternative for extracting bio-fuel.
However, he added, “We have been raiding shops and commercial establishments where plastic bags only below 40 microns are being used, seizing the same and slapping a penalty. Palike officials have learnt that plastic covers less than 40 microns thick are coming from outside Karnataka and many suppliers are still supplying plastic bags below 40 microns. Soon all that will be stopped.”
The BBMP has plans to coordinate with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to prevent plastic coming into the city.