Polythene ban in Balasore from tomorrow

Balasore: The Balasore district administration has decided to impose a ban on the use of polythene bags in its jurisdiction from tomorrow. The move assumes much significance keeping in view rise in pollution and other environmental hazards due to use of polythene.

The Balasore Municipality officials conducted a rigorous drive to create awareness among people for the last two days to ensure a complete ban on polythene under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

As per officials, a fine of Rs 500 will be imposed on the traders and others using polythene bags.

Earlier, Odisha government has banned use of polythene in six cities- Cuttack, Bhubaneswar,Rourkela, Sambalpur, Berhampur and Puri.

“We had conducted a meeting and we have decided to ban polythene use and seek public cooperation for the same. We are now conducting training and awareness drives to make Balasore polythene free,” said Collector Ramesh Chandra Rout.

Though the traders in Balasore have welcomed such decision of the administration, they are demanding a complete ban on manufacturing of polythene bags.

“We welcome the step but the authorities should ensure that a crackdown is launched on manufacturing units,” said Gautam, a local resident.