In a significant move to combat environmental pollution, the Meghalaya High Court has issued a ruling banning single-use plastics across various establishments in the state, emphasizing the introduction of more sustainable alternatives like tetra pak cartons.
On Friday, while addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the Division Bench led by Chief Justice S Vaidyanathan highlighted the urgent need to curtail the usage of plastic materials in daily activities, especially in religious and retail settings.
The court has specifically targeted temples and retail stores, instituting stringent measures to enforce this ban. Temples are instructed to ensure zero plastic bag usage within their premises. “To enforce this directive effectively, CCTV cameras will be installed across all temple areas to monitor and prevent the entry of plastics,” the court ordered.
Furthermore, the ban extends to retail shops, prohibiting the storage and use of plastic bags. “Shops found in violation will face severe penalties, and persistent non-compliance will lead to their closure,” stated the bench. This decision comes as part of a broader initiative to instill more responsible environmental practices within the state.
The High Court has tasked the state government with a proactive role in the enforcement of this ban. “Regular raids will be conducted in shops, and significant fines will be imposed on those who fail to adhere to the new regulations,” the court elaborated. It also drew parallels with stringent laws in other countries like Singapore, which have successfully implemented strict waste disposal regulations.
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This decisive action by the Meghalaya High Court has been welcomed by environmentalists and the general public alike, who view it as a crucial step towards safeguarding the environment and public health. The court has also requested the state government to submit an affidavit detailing the implementation of these measures.
