Staff reporter
Guwahati: Despite a ban imposed by the Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA) on single-use plastic products three years ago, these items remain widely available in local markets, defying enforcement efforts.
The banned products—ranging from earbuds, cigarette packets, plastic cups, plates, to carry bags—are commonly sold in city markets. Enforcement responsibility lies with the Kamrup (M) district administration and the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), which conducts periodic raids. However, many residents contend that violations occur openly, driven by the scarcity of alternative products and the ineffectiveness of awareness campaigns.
A GMC official acknowledged the growing prevalence of plastic use. “Previously, customers brought their own jute bags, and vendors used them. However, with plastic being so readily available, this practice has declined,” he said. The official further noted that GMC currently collects between 300 and 400 tonnes of waste daily, with plastic waste making up around 20-30% of that total.
Efforts are underway to address the issue through cost-effective recycling initiatives. One plan involves processing plastic waste into smaller, crinkled fragments to reduce the high costs associated with transporting and processing plastics at cement factories for energy recovery. While plastic bags derived from petroleum can theoretically be repurposed for energy production, the practical challenges and financial burdens remain significant.
An official from the PCBA attributed the continued widespread use of plastics to the extensive production and distribution networks across the state. Environmental experts have stressed the urgent need for viable alternatives, such as bio-plastics, to mitigate the harmful environmental effects of single-use plastics—a critical step in addressing associated issues like air pollution and urban flooding in the region.
As enforcement challenges persist and the environmental impact becomes increasingly pronounced, authorities and experts alike call for a comprehensive review of current strategies to promote sustainable alternatives and more effective public awareness campaigns.
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