GHMC seizes 200 tons of plastic bags

Hyderabad, June 2 (INN): The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation on Saturday seized 200 tons of plastic carry bags of 20 microns thickness, costing about Rs 80 to 90 lakh from manufacturing units at the Katedan Industrial Area.

This was revealed by GHMC Commissioner MT Krishna Babu while interacting with media persons at the GHMC head office after the Corporation's Face-to-Face programme.

Mr Krishna Babu said that the seized bags have been shifted to a godown and locked. 'A decision on what to do with the seized bags would be taken after considering all aspects, including holding consultations with the AP Pollution Control Board,' the GHMC Commissioner said.

The seized material had been produced before the ban on sale and manufacture of plastic bags within GHMC limits came into effect on July 1. Mr Krishna Babu said that most manufacturing units' owners are unaware of the material, the colours and the exact thickness which is permitted.

The GHMC would bring out a pamphlet with the help of the Pollution Control Board soon, he said. The GHMC Commissioner added that this pamphlet would help the manufacturers get a clear picture of the plastic bags which can be produced and sold.

Mr Krishna Babu revealed that the Central Pollution Control Board is mulling over a proposal to make it mandatory for manufacturing units to obtain a certificate that their units produce only biodegradable plastics.

He also appealed to the traders to charge their customers Re 1, Rs 2 or Rs 5, depending on the size of the plastic carry bags over 40 microns, so that they are discouraged to ask for the bags.

'The traders can also encourage the public to use jute bags by giving concessions ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 25,' Mr Krishna Babu said. 'It has come to my notice that some malls are collecting Rs 25 on jute bags, which is refunded if the bags are returned. This is a good example of encouraging the usage of jute bags,' the GHMC Commissioner said.

He also added that the GHMC will set up a Help Centre where citizens can call to file complaints about civic problems. This Call Centre may be functional within the next two to three months, Mr Krishna Babu said.

'Very soon, the Mayor and GHMC Commissioner will be available on one day of the week for the citizens to interact and highlight their problems,' Mr Krishna Babu said, adding that this would be implemented 'very soon.'