Ahmedabad to distribute 32 lakh cloth bags to reduce plastic waste
Ahmedabad is set to take a significant step towards sustainability by distributing 32 lakh cloth bags to 16 lakh households across the city. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), aims to curb plastic usage and encourage eco-friendly alternatives among residents. The civic body finalised the purchase of these cotton and polyester bags at a cost of ₹11.81 crore, following an initial tender process that valued 36 lakh bags at ₹14.40 crore. The move aligns with the central government’s directive banning plastic bags thinner than 120 microns and single-use plastics from December 31, 2022. By ensuring that every household receives two reusable bags, the AMC hopes to instil a behavioural shift in the community towards responsible consumption and waste reduction.
The procurement process involved multiple suppliers, with 50% of the order awarded to the lowest bidder and the remaining suppliers matching the lowest quoted rate. To guarantee quality, experts from the Ahmedabad Textile Industry’s Research Association (ATIRA) rigorously assessed the sample bags before approval. The initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the city’s waste management system, reducing reliance on single-use plastic that often clogs drains, pollutes the environment, and contributes to landfill overflow. Ahmedabad generates 4,500 metric tonnes of waste daily, with plastic waste being a major component. This intervention by the AMC aligns with broader sustainability goals and urban waste management reforms.
From a civic perspective, the move is crucial in addressing plastic pollution and urban cleanliness. Despite existing bans on plastic, enforcement has remained a challenge, with many vendors and consumers still relying on plastic bags. The AMC’s proactive distribution of cloth bags removes a key barrier to compliance, ensuring that residents have a viable alternative. However, public cooperation remains critical. Experts believe that awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement measures must accompany such initiatives to create lasting change. Additionally, stakeholders suggest that incentives for businesses to switch to eco-friendly packaging and penalties for plastic use violations should be reinforced to ensure the success of the campaign.
The initiative also fits into the larger sustainability framework of waste management and environmental conservation. Reducing plastic dependency contributes to lower carbon emissions, as plastic production and disposal are major sources of pollution. The push for cloth bags not only helps Ahmedabad meet national sustainability targets but also sets an example for other cities battling similar issues. Additionally, AMC’s decision to purchase 389,922 running metres of DI pipes for ₹153.16 crore for infrastructure improvements demonstrates a holistic approach to urban development—addressing both waste reduction and civic infrastructure enhancement. As cities across India grapple with plastic waste, Ahmedabad’s proactive steps could serve as a model for urban sustainability in the years to come.