Authorities ban polythene bags in Gulmarg to combat environmental threat

Srinagar, Aug 07: The Municipal Committee of Tangmarg-Gulmarg has implemented a strict ban on the use of polythene bags, instructing all shopkeepers, vendors, dealers and business establishments within the municipality to cease using and selling these bags.
Executive Officer Tafveez Mir said the decision was made to combat the growing environmental threat posed by polythene waste. “The unchecked use of polythene has become a significant environmental hazard, leading to pollution of land, air and water,” he said.
“Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, it has come to our attention that some shopkeepers, dealers and vendors continue to engage in the use, sale and distribution of banned polythene bags,” Mir said, adding that this persistent practice undermines the government’s efforts to promote environmentally friendly alternatives and exacerbates plastic pollution.
The officer said the MC Tangmarg-Gulmarg has the authority to impose penalties and take legal action against those who manufacture, import, stock, distribute, sell or use banned polythene products within the municipal limits.
“Despite the availability of government-approved alternatives to polythene bags in the market, the continued use of banned polythene products by some individuals and establishments threatens the eco-fragile area of Tangmarg-Gulmarg,” he said.
The Executive Officer further said that to ensure compliance with the polythene ban, a five-day period has been given to all shopkeepers, vendors, dealers, and distributors to cease their practices. “After this time period, any person or business establishment found violating the rules and regulations will face severe penalties, including the potential sealing of their establishments. Repeated violations will result in the filing of FIRs against offenders,” he warned.
Gulmarg, a world-famous ski resort, is a fragile and ecologically sensitive zone facing an unprecedented threat from polythene waste. The scourge of plastic pollution, particularly polythene bags, poses a significant environmental hazard to this eco-sensitive region. The municipal committee’s step aims to promote environmentally friendly alternatives and reduce plastic pollution in the area.