Khliehriat: In a significant crackdown on plastic pollution, authorities in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district have seized over 1,700 kg of banned single-use plastic items during a recent inspection drive, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The enforcement action comes in the wake of a Meghalaya High Court directive that strictly prohibits the sale, production, and storage of single-use plastics across the state.
Responding to the order, a multi-agency task force comprising Executive Magistrates, police personnel, and representatives of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board conducted surprise inspections across key market hubs in the district.
The inspection covered several locations, including Ladrymbai Market, Khliehriat Market, Sookilo Market, and Umpleng (also known as Cement Market) area.
During the operation, officials confiscated approximately 1,705.451 kilograms of plastic materials that failed to meet the mandated thickness of 120 microns, making them illegal under current environmental regulations.
“The seized items were mainly plastic carry bags and packaging materials that clearly violated the prescribed norms,” a senior district official said.
“This initiative is part of an ongoing campaign to enforce the state-wide ban and safeguard the environment.”
The use and distribution of single-use plastic items below the specified thickness were officially banned nationwide in 2022 under the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
Meghalaya has since strengthened implementation through its State Environment Impact Assessment Authority and individual district administrations.
Officials stated that all seized plastic will be safely processed and disposed of in line with environmental standards.
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Meanwhile, vendors and shopkeepers found possessing prohibited items have been issued stern warnings.
Authorities have made it clear that repeat violations could invite legal consequences, including monetary fines and possible suspension of business licenses.
Urging public cooperation, the district administration called on residents and businesses to adopt eco-friendly alternatives and support the broader mission of a cleaner, greener Meghalaya.
