Starting June 1, Meghalaya will enforce a complete ban on single-use plastics in East Khasi Hills district as part of a major step to fight pollution. The order follows directions from the Meghalaya High Court and aims to reduce plastic waste harming the environment.
The District Magistrate has issued strict orders banning the use, sale, and production of plastic carry bags below 120 microns in thickness. The ban also covers plastic items such as ear buds, balloon sticks, candy and ice cream sticks, thermocol decorations, and plastic wrapping films on sweet boxes and invitations.
Food outlets and vendors will no longer be allowed to use plastic plates, glasses, straws, cutlery, and stirrers. Even PVC banners below 100 microns have been prohibited.
Products labeled as “biodegradable” or “oxo-biodegradable” will only be allowed if certified by the Central Pollution Control Board, to prevent misleading claims.
The ban will be implemented under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2022, framed under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Violators will face penalties, though fines were not specified in the order.