Packaged Drinking Water Association expresses concern over PDW ban

 STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The North East Packaged Drinking Water Association had a meeting on Saturday to discuss the recent ban imposed by the Government of Assam prohibiting the manufacturing and sale of packaged drinking water (PDW) products less than one litre pack size from October 2, 2023, and the prohibition on the manufacturing and sale of PDW products less than two litre packs from October 2, 2024.

The association expressed deep concern over this decision as it adversely affects the livelihood and employment of thousands of people associated directly and indirectly with PDW and the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) Industry.

The ban raises severe concerns over the availability of safe and hygienic drinking water at an affordable rate, which is an essential requirement for every human being. It is to be highlighted that the PET bottles used in PDW are fully recyclable bottle-to-bottle in a closed loop, which is the most cost-effective, hygienic, and portable product used by almost 100 percent of the population of our country. Such a ban against the manufacture and sale of said products will impact the day-to-day lives of every citizen.

The association requested a thorough discussion over the matter with the stakeholders in the administration and seeks to cooperate in addressing the issue of pollution due to discarded PET bottles of all sorts. The association would like to work with the government to mitigate their concerns while providing the service to consumers, supporting the national directive of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan launched by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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