Himachal Govt prohibits ban of small PET water bottles and littering of non-biodegradable waste
Keeping in view the environmental concerns, the state government, in exercise of powers under sub-section (1) of Section 3-A of the HP Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, has issued a notification prohibiting the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles (up to 500 ml) in all indoor official meetings, conferences, and events organized by the government departments, Boards, Corporations and other state government organizations.
Director, Environment, Science and Technology D.C. Rana said here today that this decision has been made keeping in view the widespread use of PET water bottles which has raised significant environmental concerns due to their high potential for littering.
He said this prohibition also applies to HPTDC hotels and private hotels in the state. These entities shall adopt sustainable alternatives such as glass bottles, water dispensers/kiosks of steel containers. He added that all the government organizations would carry out IEC activities to discourage the use of small plastic PET bottles in public interest. The state government has also authorized the officials from different departments to compound offences in respect of these prohibited items.
The State Government has imposed fine of Rs. 5000 for littering of one time use plastic items, compostable and bio-degradable plastic carry bags, used for serving and consuming food or otherwise, by individual(s) or any institution/commercial establishment (educational institutions, offices, hotels, shops, restaurants, sweetshops, dhabas, temple complexes, industrial establishment, banquet halls etc.) within its premises and on roads, streets, hill slopes, drains, forest areas, public parks, all public places etc.
The ban on the use of small PET bottles will come into effect from 1 June, 2025 in public interest, allowing Government organizations, including HPTDC and private hotels, sufficient time to dispose of existing stock and avoid financial loss
D.C Rana said that the state government has also imposed ban on use of certain non-bio degradable materials and littering of non-biodegradable waste in the state under above mentioned Act to prevent pollution, save and protect environment.
He said keeping in view the environmental concerns, it has been directed that all taxi operators, public (HRTC etc.) transport and other public private transport vehicles owners and driver will install ‘Car Bins’ in their vehicles for collection of waste and the same shall be done at designated places.
The Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI shall pass/register the taxis/transport vehicles only after installation of “Car Bins”. The government has authorized the officials from different departments for entry and inspection.
He added that the government has imposed fine of Rs. 1500 for littering of bio degradable material and Rs. 10,000 for non-installation of “Garbage bins” in taxis/vehicles for public interest. The above will come into force from 29 April, 2025 in the entire State.
