Drive against sale of plastic bags of less than 50 microns conducted
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 11 2018: A drive against selling and utilising plastics bags of less than 50 microns was conducted today at different shops or vendors in Khwairamband bazar, under the directive of Manipur Pollution Control Board.

Speaking to media persons, Environmental Engineer of Manipur Pollution Control Board, Kh Premkanta stated that the State Govt has initiated the drive under Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which prohibits selling of plastic bags of less than 50 microns, at the surrounding shops opened in Paona Bazar and Thangal Bazar.

The drive advised the shopkeepers not to sell such "thin plastic" bags, he added.

Manipur Pollution Control Board Staff, city police along with media persons were present in the said drive.

Premkanta further informed that the plastics sold at different shops were measured using a cos meter to check whether the item was made below 50 microns.

He also cautioned that legal action will be taken up against those shopkeepers who continue to sell plasties bags of less than 50 microns.

Pointing out the various ill effects of utilising such bags, Premkanta informed that plastics get easily blown away and will definitely land in rivers adding to pollution of rivers as well as increasing the height of riverbeds which will in turn lead to overflowing of rivers and, floods.

It could also block the open drains and canals and even lead to death of animals like cows, when they consume such plastics.

Meanwhile, the habit of burning piles of garbage including plastics causes air pollution and chronic diseases to human beings.

Considering all these negative impacts on environment, human beings and animals, the drive was taken up as an initiative of utmost important.

He appealed to all the people to extend maximum support to MPCB in fulfilling the drive and securing the environment.

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