Mumbai: BMC gets ready to come after you, vendors using banned plastic bags

Shopkeepers using plastic bags in Andheri on 19 October 2022

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is actively considering measures to address the usage of prohibited plastic by citizens. After August 15, the BMC is set to launch an extensive campaign against the use of prohibited plastic.

"Support from officials of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the police will bolster our efforts to combat the usage of prohibited plastic," affirmed Deputy Municipal Commissioner Sanjog Kabre. He further emphasised, "Each ward team will now comprise MPCB personnel and police, a strategic move that enhances our enforcement capabilities."

Shopkeepers using plastic bags in Goregaon on 19 October 2022. File pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

During the period spanning from July 2022 to July 2023, the BMC undertook significant actions, confiscating 5,285 instances of prohibited plastic and accruing a fine amounting to R89.30 lakh. Additionally, 37 cases were filed in court. As per officials, every ward is currently equipped with a team of 2 to 3 BMC members who conduct frequent inspections in markets and densely populated areas.

"The penalty structure involves a Rs 5000 fine for first-time offenders, followed by a Rs 10,000 fine for repeat offenders. For individuals who violate this prohibition for a third time, the penalty is set at Rs 25,000 along with a three-month imprisonment," revealed a BMC official.

While there exists a provision for taking action against citizens using prohibited plastic and thermocol, practicality issues arise due to the substantial fines imposed on common citizens. A BMC official expressed, "The high fines often deter our teams from taking action against regular citizens. Consequently, our focus has shifted towards enforcing regulations upon stockists, shopkeepers, traders, and hawkers. However, if the pervasive use of prohibited plastic persists, we are also considering extending enforcement to the general citizens."

The ban encompasses plastic bags of all sizes and configurations, as well as disposable plastic plates and utensils. The usage of single-use plastic plates, spoons, and thermocol-based items, such as plates and glasses, was officially proscribed by a notification from the Maharashtra government on March 23, 2018.