The Hindu       20.01.2015    

‘Plastic carry bags, flexes will be banned’

Flexes, banners and buntings that have turned the city into an eyesore will be banned along with plastic carry bags (irrespective of thickness).

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the decision on Monday, but did not set a time frame for implementation, saying the modalities will be worked out shortly. The ban will be extended across the State later, he added.

“Both illegal flexes and plastic have become a menace in Bengaluru. Apart from complaints from citizens’ groups, the High Court of Karnataka and Lokayukta have also objected.”

Urging citizens to opt for cloth or jute bags, he requested traders to cooperate with the government and BBMP in implementing the ban on plastic carry bags.

He said that the BBMP has been directed to act against those who put up flexes and those who print them.

“Action will be initiated irrespective of whose photo is on the flex. Henceforth, flexes can be put up only on authorised hoardings with prior permission,” he said.