Jalandhar MC fails to impose ban on polybags

It’s been a fortnight since the Punjab government imposed a ban on plastic carry bags, the Jalandhar municipal corporation has failed to impose it as piles of polybags can be seen in the garbage collected in the city.

It’s been a fortnight since the Punjab government imposed a ban on plastic carry bags, the Jalandhar municipal corporation has failed to impose it as piles of polybags can be seen in the garbage collected in the city.

Despite ban, people can be seen using polybags in Jalandhar. (HT PHOTO)

The “non-serious” MC has not issued a single challan to violators in the past 15 days, when the ban came into force. Officials said they were focusing on creating awareness among traders and residents.

Assistant medical officer (AMO) Shri Krishan Sharma said the MC team was visiting various wards and talking to shopkeepers about the ban. He said from Monday onwards, they would start issuing challans to violators and will take strong measure in imposing the rule in the city.

Even as the MC authorities are blaming city residents for not complying with the orders, residents say the civic body is not making efforts to impose the ban.

Local plastic manufacturers say the government has failed to implement the ban in letter and spirit as it has stopped the manufacturers for producing plastic bags but there is no check on shopkeepers.

Municipal commissioner GS Khaira cannot be contacted despite repeated attempts.