Collects Rs. 80,000 as fine

In a determined effort to curb plastic pollution, Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched an anti-plastic campaign across its jurisdiction, resulting in the seizure of 47 kg of single-use plastic bags in the last 16 days. The action has also led to the recovery of Rs. 80,000 in fines from violators.

Under the direction of Municipal Commissioner Mr. Mangesh Chitale, the campaign has focused on four wards – Panvel, Kharghar, Kalamboli, and Kamotha. The operation intensified on January 16, where a fine of Rs. 10,000 was levied in Ward B, Kalamboli, with approximately 9 kg of plastic bags being seized. The operation was led by Chief Health Inspector Arun Kamble and his team.

Since the beginning of the campaign, over 38 kg of banned single-use plastic has been seized across various wards. The Panvel Municipal Corporation is strictly enforcing the ban on single-use plastics, following the guidelines set by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The Ministry's notification, effective since July 1, 2022, prohibits the production, import, storage, distribution, sale, and use of such plastics.

In addition to the plastic ban, the Municipal Corporation has instructed all shopkeepers to place garbage bins outside their shops. Penal actions are being taken against those failing to comply with this directive. Under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner Smita Kale and Department Head Anil Kokare, this ongoing crackdown aims to maintain cleanliness and reduce plastic waste in the city.

The Municipal Corporation has also highlighted the escalating fines for repeat offenses: Rs. 5,000 for the first violation, Rs. 10,000 for the second, and Rs. 25,000 along with three months imprisonment for the third offense.

“Panvel Municipal Corporation remains committed to a plastic-free environment, ensuring the strict implementation of regulations for the betterment of public health and the environment”, stated Mr. Chitale.