SHILLONG: The Meghalaya High Court on Friday issued a stern warning to the state government, demanding immediate action to curb the rampant use of plastic items in the state.
Responding to a public interest litigation (PIL) by Phuyosa Yobin seeking a complete ban on the production, storage, circulation and use of single-use plastic, the court expressed deep concern over the alarming accumulation of plastic waste, particularly evident in shops near the high court premises.
The bench comprising Chief Justice S Vaidyanathan and Justice W directed the state government to conduct regular inspections of shops and impose hefty fines on those violating plastic restrictions.
“Strict enforcement of the law alone will be helpful in extermination of plastics from society,” the court stated.
The court also proposed a pilot project to eliminate plastic from temple premises, suggesting the installation of CCTV cameras to monitor compliance.
Highlighting the environmental and health hazards posed by plastics, the court urged the government to explore eco-friendly alternatives and implement a comprehensive strategy to make Meghalaya a plastic-free state.
“The eradication of plastics could be achieved only with the introduction of economically feasible non-plastic substitutes by the state government,” it stated.
The government has been instructed to submit a detailed action plan outlining its efforts to reduce plastic consumption within the state.
The court also observed that the eradication of plastics has become a major challenge for the state government as they have become an inseparable part of life even though people are aware of the health hazards they pose.
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The court emphasized the severe environmental threat posed by plastic bags, particularly single-use items. “These plastics are composed of long-lasting carbon chains that can persist in the environment for centuries,” the court stated.
