Sale of plastic bags rampant in city

In a blunt violation of the government's ban on plastic bags, the sale of small plastic bags commonly used during Holi celebrations persists across the satellite city. Despite assurances from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) regarding stringent actions against plastic vendors, the environmentally harmful bags are openly available, leaving conscientious residents astonished and frustrated.

With the Holi festival just round the corner, the prevalence of plastic bags, used as water balloons, have become glaringly evident. This substitution of traditional water balloons with plastic bags has aggravated the city's plastic pollution crisis.

Despite various initiatives by the NMMC, such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and discouraging plastic use, the sale and utilization of plastic bags remain rampant, undermining conservation endeavours.

Balasaheb Shinde, President of the Paryavaran Sevabhavi Sanstha, voiced concern over the NMMC's failure to effectively enforce plastic regulations. He stressed the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat plastic pollution.

"In 2018, the state government implemented a ban on thermocol and single-use plastic, entrusting local authorities with enforcement responsibilities. However, the NMMC's efforts to curb plastic sales have proven inadequate, as plastic bags continue to inundate the market," highlighted Shinde.

The persistence of plastic bag sales despite regulatory measures underscores the pressing need for stronger enforcement mechanisms and community engagement to tackle the escalating plastic pollution crisis in Navi Mumbai.