By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 29: In compliance with the directives of the High Court of Meghalaya, the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills has issued an order prohibiting the stocking, sale, and use of plastic carry bags less than 120 microns in thickness, along with specific single-use plastic (SUP) items, effective from June 1.
The ban extends to items such as plastic-stemmed ear buds, balloon sticks, plastic flags, candy and ice cream sticks, thermocol used for decoration, disposable plates, cups, glasses, cutlery, plastic straws, trays, stirrers, and thin plastic wrapping used for sweet boxes and invitations. Plastic banners below 100 microns and SUPs claiming to be biodegradable without Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) certification are also included.
The district administration has warned manufacturers, stockists, retailers, and the general public that any violation will invite penalties under Section 18 of the amended Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2022, framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
