Guntur to enforce strict ban on single-use plastic from August 17
The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) will strictly enforce the ban on single-use plastic across the city from August 17, in accordance with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the directions of the Andhra Pradesh Government. Municipal Commissioner K. Mayur Ashok made the announcement on Wednesday, outlining a comprehensive plan to implement the ban effectively.
The prohibition pertains to single-use plastic items that have been identified under the central notification issued under the Plastic Waste Management Rules. These items, which include plastic plates, cups, straws, cutlery, and packaging materials, are known for their low utility and high littering potential. The national phase-out of these items, effective from July 1, 2022, aims to curb plastic pollution and its adverse impact on the environment. Guntur’s enforcement drive is part of Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to comply with these rules.
Ahead of the enforcement date, the civic body conducted awareness programmes in ward secretariats across the city. Environment secretaries, public health officials, and sanitation workers participated in these initiatives, which were aimed at informing residents and traders about the ban, the prohibited items, and the need to switch to alternatives.
The Municipal Commissioner said a dedicated task force has been constituted to ensure effective implementation. The task force comprises Deputy Commissioners, Health Officers, and Sanitary Supervisors, who will coordinate with various departments to carry out the enforcement drive without disruption.
From August 17, the committee will launch a drive to curb the manufacture, storage, transportation, sale, and use of prohibited single-use plastic items. Special teams will be deployed to inspect warehouses, wholesale and retail outlets, and street vending zones across the city. The inspections will be conducted systematically, and any banned plastic material found will be seized immediately.
Violators will have to pay spot fines through the ‘Swachh Guntur App’, which serves as a digital platform for tracking violations and collecting penalties. The Municipal Commissioner warned that repeated violations would attract legal action, emphasising that the enforcement would be strict and consistent. He said the task force will ensure that all establishments comply with the ban and that necessary action is taken against those found flouting the rules.
In addition to the enforcement measures, extensive awareness campaigns will be organised in all wards. These campaigns will be conducted in association with public representatives, voluntary organisations, women’s and youth groups, and resident welfare associations. The objective is to educate citizens and traders about the harmful effects of single-use plastic on the environment and public health, and to promote sustainable alternatives such as cloth bags, jute bags, and biodegradable products.
The Municipal Commissioner appealed to the denizens and business establishments to cooperate in making Guntur a healthy, plastic-free city. He stressed that the success of the ban depends on public participation and collective responsibility. He also urged citizens to report violations and contribute to the city’s cleanliness and sustainability goals.
