After gutka, Burdwan Municipality bans polythene carry bags below 40 microns

The Burdwan Municipality has decided to ban polythene carry bags less than 40 micron in thickness. The civic body has recently learnt that consumption of polythene results in large number of animal deaths. It may be mentioned that the Municipality had earlier declared gutka, a chewing stimulant, banned from its area.

Many residents expressed concerns over increasing use of polythene carry bags and their consumption in large number by animals. "The civic board has decided to ban polythene unanimously. It is really a good move," said a Municipality source said

The Municipality has mentioned in a notification that during the course of manufacturing, stocking, distribution, sale and use of carry bags and sachets, the pollution norms will be strictly checked.

The colour of the carry bags will be in natural shade or transparent. Colourful bags will be allowed but the manufactures have to follow the norms set by the Bureau of Indian Standards.

"No person should manufacture, stock distribute or sell any carry bag made of polythene which is less than 40 microns in thickness. Sachets using plastic material will not be used for storing, 

packing or selling gutka, tobacco and pan masala," the source added.   

"Animals eat polythenes which chokes the digestive system resulting into their death. Imposing ban on polythene use will protect their lives. Polythene is also harmful for some other reasons especially when solid waste management is concerned. Anybody caught using polythene will be penalised," the source said.

It may be mentioned that the work of beautification is going on in Burdwan town. The civic body has taken up several beautification projects to increase the attraction of the city. Banning plastic and gutka were really necessary for the civic body before the beautification work is completed.

According to West Bengal Pollution Control Board, various types of polymers are widely used throughout the world for a variety of 

useful purposes. The most popular polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene and nylon. However, the biggest problem with the conventional plastics is non-biodegradability and release of toxic pollutants.