The next time you go shopping, don’t carry a plastic bag else you may be asked to pay Rs.500 fine. After several requests and regular reminders given to the people, BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) is now taking the matter seriously.
What is the matter?
The state government has issued a complete ban on plastic bags. Those who violate the ban will incur a fine of Rs. 500 and repeat offenders can be asked to pay Rs. 1000. According to the civic commissioner, N Manjunath Prasad, no one shall use plastic bags or banners and manufacturer shall not manufacture, sell or supply the plastic carry bags. The bag manufacturers will be fined a maximum of Rs 5 lakh in the case found guilty.
Last year, on September 1, the state of Kerala had issued a complete ban on the use of thin plastic bags. The offenders are asked to pay Rs. 5,000, which could go up to Rs. 25,000 for multiple offences.
Harmful effects of plastic
Plastic garbage is one of the major sources of pollution. The products made of plastic are often non-biodegradable, hence, take millions of years to decompose. Bangalore city alone generates around 350 to 400 metric tons of plastic waste per day which is then dumped into the landfills. This disposal creates irreversible environmental damage in land and water.
How can we contribute?
Use cloth shopping bags. Say no to straw while buying drinks. Skip bottled water. Avoid disposable plates and cutlery
The Logical Indian team requests its readers to show their support and help keep the Garden City beautiful and pollution free.
