Kolkata: Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has directed all the markets under its jurisdiction not to provide plastic carry bags to customers, with effect from Wednesday. The civic body is responsible for maintenance of 47 markets in the city, among which 16 markets sell only garments.
"We have already directed the vendors not to issue plastic bags below 50 microns to customers and urge them to carry their own bags to the markets. We will start raids in the market soon after the Puja to monitor the situation. Initially, we will not go for any fine and will raise awareness among customers through banners and posters," said Amiruddin (Bobby), Member, Mayor-in-Council (Market).
The KMC has started awareness campaigns to dissuade people from using plastic for the last three years. There are some municipalities in the state that have already been able to minimise the use of plastic bags.
"We have already made a draft regarding plastic policy based on directives of court and state Pollution Control Board. There is also provision for fine for both the buyer and the seller regarding plastic bag use. We hope to table a Bill in this regard at the next Assembly session," said Swapan Samaddar, MMiC (Environment).
It may be mentioned that the Centre has not proposed a blanket ban on single-use plastic on October 2 either
and has instead called for a phased reduction in the use of plastic products. It believes in "mass movement to sensitise the public against the use of plastic".
Plastic bags clog the underground sewer lines resulting in waterlogging in the city. It often causes damage to the pumps that are used to clear the accumulated water from roads.
"Awareness among the citizens is the key to fight the menace of plastic. We have held competition in the borough level, encouraging efficient handling of solid waste management that also includes minimum use of plastic," Samaddar said, adding that the civic body has already banned the use of thermocol in its community halls.