Uttar Pradesh government bans use of polythene bags

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With an aim to protect the environment and public health Uttar Pradesh government has decided to enforce the ban on  the manufacture, import, purchase and storage of all kinds of plastic carry bags across the state, 

Decision in this regard was taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav as per the directives of Allahabad High Court to prohibit its usage.

Enforcement is the major challenge in implementing such orders as it will be very difficult to eliminate the use of polythene bags completely as it is still high on demand for day-to-day needs.

Background :

The Allahabad high court had last month directed the Uttar Pradesh government to issue a notification enforcing a complete ban on the sale of polythene across the state by December 31.The National Green Tribunal (NGT) too had recently banned the use of polythene along the Ganga, including areas in Uttar Pradesh.

Key facts :

• Following the ban, no shopkeeper, wholesaler or retailer will be able to use, store or purchase plastic carry bags for eatable or non-eatable items.
• However,the ban will not be applicable on carry bags used for packaging purposes and State Government is looking at alternative material that can be distributed to the people.

Note: Polythene is the major reason for choked drains and it is also the cause of death of several stray animals.Most of the sewerage treatment plants in Uttar Pradesh are developed on technology from foreign countries. They are not equipped to treat water, which is studded with polythene. Polythene burnt with garbage also emits toxic fumes which are dangerous to health