Come Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year on March 18, Maharashtra will get tough on plastic ban violators. Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam on Friday announced a ban on specified plastics in the State.
“Plastic bags, thermocol, disposable cups and plates, cutlery, non-woven polypropylene bags, plastic pouches and packaging would be banned,” said Mr. Kadam. Violators would be fined ₹25,000 and could also face a three-year jail term. The ban covers the production, use, storage, sale, distribution, import and transport of plastic, Mr. Kadam told the State Assembly.
Plastic milk pouches must be above 50 microns, and be recyclable. Pouches should state the cost of recycling and customers can claim a refund of 50 paise per pouch. PET bottles would be recycled at not more than ₹1 per bottle under a new plan.
