GVMC warns vendors regarding plastic bags in Visakhapatnam

On the occasion of World Environment Day on June 5, the world has taken a stand for the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution”. Not just the NGOs and private organisations, even Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) decided to reduce the generation and usage of plastic materials.

GVMC Commissioner, M Hari Narayan, said that they are making efforts to reduce the amount of generation by using paper glasses instead of plastic water bottles during the meetings.

Vendors at different markets in Visakhapatnam are being asked not to use bags below 50 microns. An official at GVMC said that those who do not abide by the norms shall be strictly penalised.

Assistant Medical Officer of Health (AMOH) of GVMC, Dr Sudhakar, said to TOI, “According to rules, plastic vendors have to register with the local body and pay Rs 4,000 per month to conduct their business. Till now, 20 vendors have registered themselves after paying the amount. They have also been asked not to sell bags which are below 50 microns.”

Also, Dr Sudhakar added, “We will continue our campaign and counsel the vendors. Every Wednesday, GVMC will observe ‘Plastic Fine Day’ to penalise vendors if they go against the instructions. Also, the civic body has requested people not to accept plastic bags from any vendor and instead carry a cloth bag along when they go out for shopping.”

Credits: Times of India