Manipur to enforce statewide plastic ban from April 15

Imphal: In a bold step towards sustainability, the Manipur will implement a complete ban on plastic products statewide starting April 15.

This eco-conscious move aims to address pressing environmental issues and promote sustainable living practices across the state.

A statewide awareness campaign will commence on April 7, targeting urban and rural populations alike. The environment and climate change department, in collaboration with the municipal administration, housing and urban development (MAHUD) and the Manipur Pollution Control Board, will lead the effort.

During a consultative meeting at Imphal Hotel, A K Sinha, principal secretary of environment and climate change, highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in this initiative. "This is not just a govt initiative. We urge every citizen to actively participate and support this effort for a cleaner, greener Manipur," he said.

To ensure compliance, fines ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 2,000 will be imposed, depending on the volume of plastic seized and the frequency of violations. Repeat offenders may face increased penalties.

With April 15 approaching, officials are urging the public to transition to eco-friendly alternatives, setting a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in the northeast.