Gudi Padwyachya Hardik Shubhecha: ‘Eco-Gift’ as Maharashtra goes ‘Plastic Free’ from today

Mumbai, March 17: This Gudi Padwa Maharashtra has an ‘Eco-gift’ as the state is set to go ‘plastic-free’. Sipping cutting chai from a plastic cup or drinking cold drinks with straws may soon be a thing of the past. 

Maharashtra government has decided to ban the use of plastic which includes manufacturers of plastic bags, straws and disposable plastic cutlery, and retailers, restaurants and food outlets with takeaway food services.

Those violating the ban would be fined Rs 25,000 and could also face a 3 jail term.

Maharashtra government has decided to ban the use of plastic from "Gudi Padva", the Maharashtrian New Year which falls on March 18, Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam said.

The state cabinet passed the plastic ban proposal on Thursday evening. The idea was first mooted by Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray, who backed the banning of these three items in the first phase of the ban.

It is likely that all shopkeepers in the state will soon be asked to submit an undertaking to the local civic bodies that they will refrain from using plastic bags, which will also become a condition in the new license. The violation of which will result in the cancellation of their license.

Meanwhile, plastic used to cover medicines, forest and horticulture products, solid waste, tree saplings and the use of plastic in special economic zones for export purposes have been exempted from the ban. Plastic covers and wrappers used for manufactured and processed products would also be exempt. Plastic milk pouches would have to be above 50 microns and it should be recyclable, Minister said, adding that these used pouches should be bought back for recycling at a cost not less than 50 paise.