Ban on plastic bags: Officers to meet Imran Hussain today

NEW DELHI: After a week-long inspection at various markets, the Environment department of the Delhi government will submit a detailed report on the ban on plastic carry bags less than 50 microns to Minister Imran Hussain on Tuesday.

Hussain is likely to direct officials to book any person violating the law. The Department will also formulate guidelines to use plastic bags in markets as per law.

Earlier, Hussain had directed officers to enforcing strict prohibition on the sale, storage and use of plastic carry bags less than 50 micron at shops and other establishments in Delhi.

The direction was issued by the Minister during a meeting with the senior officers of the Environment Department and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to review the progress of implementation of the ban on plastic carry bags in Delhi.

After the meeting, officials of the Environment department visited various shops, markets, and residential areas.

According to sources in the government, the inspection was carried out successfully and officials took note of violations at many places.

They would discuss the matter with Hussain on Tuesday and, with the help of DPCC members, the Environment department will formulate guidelines on the use of plastics.

As per the order, local bodies, District Magistrates and DPCC will take strict action towards implementation of National Green Tribunal directions and persons possessing or using plastic carry bags will be liable to pay environment compensation of Rs 5,000.