The Hindu     31.08.2012

Madurai Corporation to act tough on plastic usage

Madurai Corporation council on Thursday passed a resolution banning sale and usage of plastic products below 40 microns in the city with effect from September 1.

The resolution also banned commercial establishments from giving plastic carry bags above 40 microns to customers free of cost, in order to discourage the usage.

The resolution, which was unanimously passed without any discussion, said that plastic bags, cups and water bottles that were littered on roads led to choking of drainage channels and sewers, causing a health hazard as well.

“This is part of our plan to implement the project of garbage-free city 2012,” Mr. Chellappa said. The officials are now empowered to prevent sale and usage of plastic products.

The officials would seize banned products sold in shops or used by individuals. The violators would be imposed fine too. Any wholesale dealer found violating the ban order would be imposed a fine of Rs. 500.

The fine amount for retail sellers is Rs. 200, and for users it is Rs. 100.Banning free distribution of plastic carry bags below 40 microns, the resolution said that the bags should only be sold. Smaller bags (12 by 14 inches) should be sold for Re. 1, medium-size bags (16 by 20 inches) for Rs. 2 and bigger bags (22 by 30 inches) for Rs. 4.