Notwithstanding ban, use of recycle plastics widespread
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 08 2011: Despite prohibition under Plastic Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 2011, use of recycle plastics in wrapping eatables or in making carry-bags continue to thrive in Manipur with no sign of any stringent implementation of the Rules.

Use of recycle plastics has been prohibited as they poses health hazard.

But one cannot fail to see them being used everywhere in Manipur, whether it be in market places, shops or in households.

Among the recycle plastics, the one which comes in black colour is said to be most harmful to human health.

But they are being used widely in meat shops.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Forest and Environment, Government of India had issued a notification on February 4 this year directing all the state governments for implementation of Plastic Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 2011.Accordingly, Manipur Pollution Control Board also started taking up necessary steps for implementation of the Rules and ban use of recycle plastics along with issuing necessary instructions to all the Municipal authorities on March 23 last.

But even after nine months, the Municipal authorities have not taken up any measures to stop use of recycle plastics.

In accordance to the Plastic Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 2011, control of unauthorised manufacturing, recycling and disposal of recycle plastics is under the responsibility of the Pollution Control Board while prevention of use of recycle plastics, collection of plastic waste, storage and transportation for that of the municipal authorities.

An official of the Imphal Municipal Council has, however, informed that lack of adequate staff has been the main difficult in implementation of the Rules.

Nonetheless, necessary measures would be taken up soon for proper implementation of the Rules in Imphal Municipality area.

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