In a drive launched by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials in association with the Corporation authorities, 40, 000 kilogram of banned plastics were seized here on Friday.

During the surprise raid at shops located beside the market on Jeyaraj Road in Tuticorin Central, the banned plastic carry bags and plastic cups were stashed in egg selling shops and other grocery stores.

The plastic bags, which had been stored in six shops, were sold on a wholesale basis, M. Murugan, District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Tuticorin, who led the drive, said.

The seized plastics were found to be below 40 microns in violation of plastic manufacturing rules. Moreover, the bags were misbranded sans proper address of manufacturers.

A fine of Rs. 3, 000 was imposed against the offenders who were involved in stashing the banned plastics.The district administration is keenly involved in eradicating plastics, causing harm to the environment, which should be protected at all costs.

Collector Ashish Kumar had instructed the officials to conduct raids at frequent intervals, he said.Public should also extend cooperation in abolishing plastics to protect the environment, Mr. Murugan also said.

Consumers should carry bags as insisted by the Pollution Control Board officials instead of approaching the shops with empty hands.

The recommended bags were obviously available in many shops.Thirumalsamy, Sanitation Inspector and other personnel of corporation were also involved in the operation.