Anti-polythene drives conducted

Shopian, Oct 23: On the directions of the Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, anti-polythene drives were conducted today in numerous areas of Shopian town.

The inspections were jointly carried by the Pollution Control Committee, Rural Development Department and Municipal Council Shopian to check the use of banned polythene.

The teams were led by BDO Shopian, Divisional Officer, PCC and Secretary, MC Shopian, who inspected various market spots of the town. These checks aimed to identify businesses and vendors still using the polythene despite the ban.

During the drives, shopkeepers were warned against using polythene, which is prohibited due to its adverse environmental and health impacts. This action is part of a broader effort to reduce single use plastic, enforce a ban on polythene, and promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives. A fine of Rs. 2500 was imposed on violators. The team confiscated the polythene bags, about 2 Kgs and destroyed them on the spot.

The shopkeepers were informed about the negative environmental and health impact of polythene and asked to make the use of biodegradable alternatives such as cloth bags, jute bags and paper bags which are eco-friendly and widely available in the market.