The Hindu 17.08.2009
Ban on plastics at Marina comes into force
Staff Reporter
CHENNAI: Day one of the ban on plastics on the Marina Beach saw Chennai Corporation officials inspect shops on the sands to ensure they were not stocking disposable plastics such as tea cups, carry bags and water packets.
“Our aim is to keep the Marina clean and free of used water packets, packaged water bottles, plastic packets and plastic bags and cups,” Mayor M. Subramanian told journalists here on Saturday. The civic body had announced its decision to ban plastics on the beach about two months ago.
“Awareness programmes would be conducted for 15 days. Banners have been put up all over the beach urging the public not to throw plastics there,” he said.
Five water-purifying plants would be installed on the beach. The decision to install them was taken in view of the ban on disposal of packaged water bottles. “We are working on the design of the water purifiers,” he said.
Mr. Subramanian said that the Corporation Commissioner Rajesh Lakhoni had discussed with the Commissioner of Police and briefed him about the ban on plastics. “We are considering imposing a fine of Rs.50 on those who litter on the beach.”
