Guntur to Impose Strict Ban on Thin Plastic Bags and Single-Use Plastic from August 15
The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) will enforce a complete ban on plastic carry bags with a thickness of less than 120 microns and all notified single-use plastic items within its limits starting August 15, 2026. This decision follows the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notification GSR No. 571(E) dated August 12, 2021, and the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
Municipal Commissioner K. Mayur Ashok on Monday (July 27, 2026) urged residents, traders, and commercial establishments to cooperate in implementing the ban to protect the environment and maintain urban cleanliness. He called on shopkeepers, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, street vendors, and the general public to stop using plastic products that pose a serious threat to the environment and public health. The Commissioner advised switching to eco-friendly alternatives such as paper bags, jute bags, and cloth bags.
Strict enforcement measures will be in place from August 15. Violators found using, selling, storing, transporting, or distributing banned plastic items will face penalties of up to ₹5,000, in addition to legal action under relevant provisions of the law. Citizens can report violations or seek information by contacting the GMC helpline at 0863-2345103.
The Commissioner called upon all sections of society to voluntarily participate in making Guntur a plastic-free city. The ban is part of a broader national effort to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable alternatives.
