The Shillong Municipal Board has warned of action against any persons or establishments selling or stocking banned single-use plastic.
The change in law came into force on July 1 but there have been reports of the continued use of plastic bags that are too thin (the limit is 40 microns) and other items that are banned. Shops are reportedly still handing out thin plastic bags to shoppers but use the excuse that they are using up old stock.
The SMB informed all residents under its jurisdiction that the ban applies to plastic bags less than 40 microns in thickness as well as earbuds with plastic sticks, plastic sticks for balloons, plastic flags, candy sticks, ice-cream sticks, polystyrene (thermocol) for decoration; plates, cups, glasses, cutlery such as forks, spoons, knives, straw, trays, wrapping or packaging films around sweet boxes, invitation cards, cigarette packets, plastic or PVC banners less than 100 micron and stirrers.
The provisions of the amended rules shall not apply to commodities made of compostable plastic.
Those found stocking or selling the products mentioned above shall be penalised and materials stocked or sold shall be confiscated, the SMB warned.
