Pune Corporation (PMC) acts against single-use plastic makers

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is intensifying its campaign against plastic pollution and this time by turning its attention towards manufacturers for the first time.

Recently, the solid waste management department of PMC proposed a plan to Rajendra Bhosale, who heads PMC, urging action against single-use plastic production facilities both within and outside municipal boundaries. According to reports, this will be done in collaboration with other governing bodies.

Sandip Kadam, head of PMC’s Solid Waste Management division, emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of illicit plastic production to curb its circulation in the market. While there are existing specialized teams to regulate the distribution and use of banned plastic, endorsing this proposal would bolster efforts to tackle the issue at its source.

This decision aligns with the plastic ban enforced by the Maharashtra government in March 2018, along with the implementation of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Additionally, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) issued a notification on March 12, instructing PMC to intensify surveillance of the manufacturing, sale, use, and trade of prohibited single-use plastics.

PMC’s stringent enforcement of the ban is evident through the imposition of fines at various levels. Initial offenders face a ₹5,000 fine, while repeat offenders are fined ₹10,000 for the second violation, and a hefty ₹25,000 fine for subsequent violations. A municipal official disclosed that since January 2024, PMC has successfully seized 823 kg of illegal plastic.

PMC’s proactive stance underscores the urgent need to address plastic pollution and underscores the importance of collective action in combating this environmental menace. By targeting manufacturers, authorities aim to disrupt the illegal plastic supply chain, ultimately fostering a cleaner and healthier environment for Pune city and its residents.