NAGPUR: The NMC has resumed the drive to seize plastic bags below 50 micron thickness for prevention of water bodies' pollution, especially the Nag River, choking of drains and safety of cattle. Action has been taken against 21 shops between January 4 and March 31. The civic body seized 656 kg plastic bags during the drive and also penalized these shops.

The central government has made the drive against plastic bags mandatory. But the NMC takes up the drive as merely a pre-monsoon activity. Deputy director (health) Dr Milind Ganvir said the drive was conducted in 20 localities, including Sitabuldi, Itwari, Sadar and Gandhibagh. "Action was taken against 21 shops including Big Bazaar outlets at Empress Mall and Wardhaman Nagar, Apna Restaurant in Sitabuldi etc," he said.

The drive will continue in coming days," he said.