In a move to protect the environment, the Dirang administration has announced a ban on the sale of 500 ml plastic water bottles in the Dirang subdivision of West Kameng district, effective August 1.
The decision was made during a consultative meeting, where Dirang ADC Choiki Dondup appealed to the public and shopkeepers for their cooperation. The administration has been actively working to reduce plastic waste in the area, having previously banned single-use plastics, including polythene bags, which resulted in a significant reduction in plastic waste.
According to the ADC, a survey had shown that the use of single-use plastic was around 2,000 kg per month, which was alarming. The ban on single-use plastics helped preserve the beauty of the valley and restored its natural charm. The ADC expressed gratitude to local MLA Phurpa Tsering, PRI members, and the public for their support in the campaign against plastic pollution.
The administration has asked shopkeepers to clear their existing stock of 500 ml plastic water bottles before the ban comes into effect. Surprise inspections will be conducted to ensure strict implementation of the order. The ban will be enforced in all localities under the subdivision’s jurisdiction, including Dirang Market, Jyoti Nagar, Dirang Dzong, Ramacamp Market, and Padma.
The meeting was attended by ZPMs from Lish and Dirang blocks, senior community leaders, bazaar secretaries of Dirang and Ramacamp, heads of departments, and representatives from the Indian Army, the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), and paramilitary forces.
The administration has appealed to the public to extend their full cooperation in making Dirang subdivision free from plastic pollution.
