BMC to Enforce Plastic Ban with Fines on Vendors, Customers
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to take stringent action on the use of single-use plastics across Mumbai, marking a new phase in the city’s battle against plastic pollution. After a week-long awareness campaign, the civic body is gearing up to implement penalties for both vendors and customers involved in the use or sale of prohibited plastic items. This move comes following a directive from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), which has urged the BMC to enforce the ban more aggressively.
While the BMC is firm in its commitment to eliminate plastic waste, it is also considering a revision of the fine structure to impose lesser penalties on customers. The proposal, which is under review, suggests a more lenient approach for individuals, while still holding vendors accountable. Enforcement will initially focus on the 91 civic-run markets scattered across Mumbai, where plastic use remains pervasive. In addition to imposing fines, the BMC is placing a significant emphasis on public education. Licensing inspectors and other civic staff will visit both civic and traditional markets to educate vendors and shoppers about the banned items and the penalties for non-compliance. These awareness drives are a key part of the strategy to ensure that the public is fully informed about the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
The plastic ban in Maharashtra, which came into effect on 23rd March 2018, prohibits the manufacturing, use, sale, and storage of a range of plastic products. Despite this, plastic continues to be used widely across the city. Last year, the BMC conducted inspections at 44,448 establishments, seized over two tonnes of banned plastic items, and collected INR 41.70 lakh in fines. Prohibited plastic items include carry bags, straws, candy sticks, thermocol decorations, plastic cutlery, and plastic sticks for balloons and earbuds. Additionally, plastic packaging under 50 microns and certain nonwoven polypropylene carry bags are also banned unless deemed essential.
Under the current regulations, violators face fines starting at ₹5,000 for the first offense. Repeat offenders will face increased penalties of ₹10,000 for a second violation and ₹25,000 for a third, along with possible legal action. The BMC’s intensified enforcement of the plastic ban is a step towards reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste in Mumbai. However, the success of this initiative will rely on both strict adherence to the rules and widespread public participation in adopting more sustainable alternatives.
