Guwahati: The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) has banned single-use plastic items and plastic carry bags measuring below 120 microns within its jurisdiction as part of measures to curb plastic waste.
The order, issued by IMC Joint Commissioner Khoda Lasa, directs shops, commercial establishments, supermarkets, hotels, eateries and street vendors to stop using the prohibited items with immediate effect.
The banned items include plastic-stemmed earbuds, balloon sticks, plastic flags, candy and ice-cream sticks, thermocol decorations, plastic plates, cups, cutlery, straws, wrapping films and stirrers. PVC banners below 100 microns have also been prohibited.
The order further bars the manufacture, stocking, distribution, sale and transportation of plastic carry bags below 120 microns, along with non-biodegradable packaging sachets.
Traders involved in plastic packaging have been directed to comply with mandatory labelling provisions under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
The IMC said the restrictions would be enforced through regular inspections, surprise checks and special drives. It also warned residents against dumping or improperly disposing of plastic waste in drains, roads, parks, markets and water bodies.
The civic body appealed to residents and shopkeepers to cooperate with the ban and shift towards eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives.