Thiruvananthapuram: Authorities come down hard on plastic usage in the city

After 300 tonnes of plastic waste were collected in a recent drive by the Thiruvananthapuram city corporation, the authorities have now come down hard by imposing restriction on its use from July 1.

According to a report in The New Indian Express, a complete ban on the usage of plastic bags below 50 micron and butter papers used by roadside eateries. But people were found to be flouting it.

During operation Anantha, plastic waste was found clogging the drains across the city which resulted in water logging in several areas. The daily quotes mayor VK Prashanth saying that the restrictions have been imposed to protect health of the people and preserve the city’s beauty. Plastic sheets were also found to be burnt in several places in the city, which are currently under the scanner of the city corporation.

The corporation has now suggested alternative measures to the use of plastic. The use of eco-friendly products such as plantain leaves, aluminium foil, etc, for serving and packing food at eateries is seen as the way forward. Plastic sheets and covers become difficult to recycle. Disposable plates and tumblers made of thermocol and other material will also be replaced by more sturdy material, adds the report.