Himachal Pradesh bans plastic cups, plates

To save the fragile environment of Himachal Pradesh from plastic waste, the government today imposed a complete ban on storage and use of non-biodegradable disposable plastic cups, plates and glasses and warned that those violating it could face a fine of up to Rs5,000.

The government had earlier decided to impose ban on plastic products from August 15 but the implementation was deferred to October 2 due to stiff opposition by traders.

To make the state a "polythene-free" state, the state Public Works Department (PWD) has also launched a project under which polythene and plastic wastes are being used for roads construction.

The government purchased plastic waste at the rate of Rs3 per Kg and used it for road construction bringing down the cost considerably.