
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) today imposed a complete ban on the the sale, manufacture and storage of plastic items in towns located on thebanks of the River Ganga in view of the pollution of the river caused by these items.
A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar banned items such as carry bags, plates and cutlery till Uttarkashi.
The ban includes the towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh.
The green panel, which hearing a plea of environmentalist MC Mehta,also imposed Rs 5,000 fine on those violating the order and said action will be taken against erring officials as well.
The NGT passed the direction after noting that despite its earlier order, plastic was being used in these areas and was polluting the river.