Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) seized over nine tonnes of banned plastic from a warehouse in Nalasopara East on Friday, marking the largest crackdown on illegal plastic storage in the city’s history. The operation, led by the D Ward team under Assistant Commissioner Jitendra Naik, was conducted following directives from Municipal Commissioner Manojkumar Suryawanshi and Additional Commissioner Sanjay Herwade.
The raid targeted a godown in the Saree Compound area after the civic body received credible reports about a large stockpile of prohibited plastic. Officials swiftly moved in around 11 a.m., inspected the premises, and confiscated the material, which was then secured by municipal authorities. The operation also included a monetary penalty of ₹5,000 on the warehouse operators, in line with the penalties prescribed under the plastic ban. Top civic officials personally visited the site to supervise enforcement and ensure adherence to compliance procedures. “This seizure demonstrates our commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting public health,” an official said. The municipal team emphasised that repeat violations of the ban attract progressively higher fines—₹10,000 for a second offence and up to ₹25,000, alongside imprisonment for up to three months, for repeated breaches.
Environmental experts highlight that such rigorous enforcement is critical to promoting zero-waste urban practices and reducing plastic pollution, which directly impacts groundwater, soil quality, and local biodiversity. A senior urban planner noted, “Banning plastic is not merely regulatory; it is central to building sustainable, inclusive cities where residents can breathe clean air and live in a toxin-free environment.” The VVCMC has consistently urged traders to avoid banned plastics and encouraged citizens to adopt reusable alternatives. Officials pointed out that widespread public cooperation, combined with stringent inspections, is necessary to curb the circulation of prohibited materials effectively.
This seizure also underscores the growing capabilities of municipal corporations in metropolitan regions to monitor and act against environmental violations proactively. Observers suggest that regular enforcement drives and robust public awareness campaigns are essential to achieve long-term environmental sustainability and equitable urban living conditions. Looking ahead, the VVCMC plans to continue targeted inspections across the city, especially in commercial and industrial hubs, to ensure full compliance with the plastic ban. Authorities emphasised that these efforts are part of a broader initiative to maintain clean, sustainable, and resilient urban spaces for residents.
Vasai Virar Seizes Over Nine Tonnes Banned Plastic In Crackdown
