TMB Report
Imphal: A team of Manipur Pollution control Board (MPCB) led by its Chairman Dr Usham Deben carried out a drive against use of plastic in Imphal city on Monday. The team collected packaged water bottles as use of plastic has been restricted by the government.
With the ban imposed on single use of plastic bags and plates, shops selling these banned items were shut down. The MPCB along with Imphal West Police carried out a drive at Thangal Baxar, MG Avenue. Packaged water bottles for 500 millilitres used in a rice hotel were picked up by the team.
The team also collected disposable plates and glass from five/six godowns. A package water bottle factory at Dewlahland was also inspected and preform bottles and packaged water bottles under 1 litre were seized by the team.
Talking to media persons, Dr Usham Deben stated that an order was issued putting ban on selling plastics under micron 120 and packaged drinking water below 1 litre after March 30. He said that extended days were given after the deadline and a drive was also conducted at Moreh, the main route for import of plastics.
He said that no punishment will be given to the shopkeepers for today; however, if selling of banned plastic items continues, a fine of Rs 1 lakh will be imposed and necessary actions will be taken.
He appealed to the people to prevent the use of plastic bags and not to purchase packaged water bottles under 1 litre which is causing huge harm to the environment and take the initiative to save and protect the environment.
Urging the people to go for alternative products instead of plastic, he assured that the government will take necessary action against those who defy the ban.
