Dwarka: The plastic ban takes a back seat in the weekly market

Dwarka: After the Central Government implemented a ban on single-use plastic pan India, effective from July 1, 2022, the weekly markets in Dwarka present a different picture. The vendors were seen selling vegetables and other goods in polythene or plastic bags. The customers were also seen asking for polythene or plastic carry bags. While some people took their cloth bags out for shopping, the majority still demanded plastic carry bags.

There were no officials at the site to keep a check on whether the ban is being followed or not. In a conversation with CitySpidey earlier, the officials concerned told that the polythene bags from shopkeepers and other vendors would be seized. If the vendors and customers are seen using plastic bags, they'll be prosecuted. It was also gathered that a fine was imposed on shopkeepers in Sector 10 market who were found using single-use plastics. However, no such action was in sight in the weekly market of Sector 14 on Sunday, July 3, 2022.

While talking to CitySpidey about the ban, some vendors were of the opinion that they'll stop using them as it will help them cut some expenses. However, other vendors said that the ban would not be effective and things might remain the same. One of the vendors, on the condition of anonymity, said “Although we are willing to stop the use of plastic bags, the ban won't be much effective. All the vendors are using plastic bags in open. I hope from next week, the officials might check the matter.”

The customers, when asked, were also in the favour of the ban but believed that strict enforcement is necessary for it to be effective. PK Mishra, a resident of Sector 14 said, “The use of these plastic bags has become very common. Without strictness, the ban will be ineffective. The authorities must impose fines on people who violate the rules."

On the subject, Assistant Commissioner, MCD, Najafgarh Zone, Patanjali Prakash said that drive will be carried in such weekly markets and polythene bags would be seized. People who will be seen using them would be fined.